The Atlanta Hawks are in full workout mode at this point in the NBA Draft process and that isn’t slowing down on Tuesday. Chris Vivlamore of the AJC brings word that UCLA power forward T.J. Leaf and Syracuse forward Tyler Lydon are two players that Atlanta will be taking a closer look at this week.
Tyler Lydon, TJ Leaf among players to work out for Hawks Tuesday.
— Chris Vivlamore (@CVivlamoreAJC) June 13, 2017
Leaf is the more famous of the two prospects, largely due to his affiliation with Lonzo Ball and the UCLA Bruins. Still, the 6’10 forward displays a varied and impressive offensive profile that would fit well under Mike Budenholzer. With that said, Leaf’s defensive versatility and upside are very much in question, especially given the way that the league is moving with regard to the ability to switch and/or protect the rim.
As for Lydon, the 6’10 forward has more of a pure “stretch” four make-up and is arguably a better athlete. However, his stock isn’t quite as shiny as that of Leaf and there were plenty of issues with consistency during his time at Syracuse.
In terms of the Hawks, neither player would be an ideal pick at No. 19, though Leaf seems to trend in that range according to mock drafts. If either was available at No. 31, though, a theoretical marriage might make more sense.
Stay tuned.