Undrafted Jay Huff Ties for NBA Lead in Blocks

Unexpected Defensive Leader

Rim protection remains one of the most valuable skills in the NBA, and this season has offered a reminder of how game-changing a strong shot-blocker can be. While towering youngsters like Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren occupy headlines and anchor top defenses out West, neither currently leads the league in blocks.

That unusual distinction belongs to Jay Huff of the Indiana Pacers. The undrafted center has racked up 104 blocks this year, tying him with Wembanyama for the league lead — a surprising stat line for a player who only recently worked his way into a consistent role.

Huff’s Path and His Role With the Pacers

Huff’s road to this moment has been winding. He signed with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2021 and spent time with several teams before landing in Indiana via an offseason trade. The Pacers have endured a rough season, hampered by injuries to key players and the departure of a longtime starter. Despite the team’s struggles and a 14–40 record, Huff has been a bright spot.

Playing around 20 minutes per game, he’s averaged about 8.6 points and nearly two blocks, giving Indiana reliable rim protection whether he comes off the bench or starts. His defensive instincts were already on display in the G League, where he earned Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2023.

Though he may not be viewed as a permanent starter if the team adds veteran frontcourt pieces, Huff appears to have secured himself as a dependable backup center and a legitimate defensive presence moving forward. For a rebuilding roster, that kind of emergence is exactly the kind of silver lining coaches and fans love to see.