Indiana Pacers pick up fourth-year option on forward TJ Leaf

With thirteen days before the start of a new NBA season. The Indiana Pacers have picked up the fourth-year option of developing forward TJ Leaf.

According to ESPN’s, Adrian Wojnarowski, the Indiana Pacers will be picking up the fourth-year option on forward TJ Leaf’s contract.

Leaf, who was drafted with the 18th overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, has not necessarily met the expectations of some fans. However, throughout the past two seasons, the forward has undergone a maturation process that deemed worthy enough to bring him back for further consideration and contribution.

With only one career start, Leaf will be another integral part of the Pacers bench this season. At 6-10, his length combined with his ability to shoot from distance makes him a viable option as things move forward.

Despite not being a consistent starter, Leaf has shown flashes of ability. In a late-season contest last season against the Atlanta Hawks, Leaf exploded for 28 points.

Leaf has also displayed a willingness to rebound as well as use take care of the basketball, two aspects of his game Coach McMillan and the rest of coaching staff appreciate.

In addition to displaying his potential, Leaf has become a major component of the team’s chemistry and morale. Bringing Leaf back for the fourth year can pay dividends both on and off the court.

Due to the money allocated to the contracts of Malcolm Brogdon, Victor Oladipo, Myles Turner and potentially Domantas Sabonis, the Pacers front office decided to be proactive in bringing Leaf back for an additional season.

In order to ensure depth and to not overpay in the future, the Pacers took care of business before Leaf could hit the market.

Leaf signed an initial three-year contract worth $7,249,200 in 2017. The exercised fourth-year option will pay Leaf a handsome $4,326,825 for that season.