Paul Klee of IlliniHQ.com writes about Portland Trail Blazers center Meyers Leonard's transition to the NBA, noting that the team did extensive background research on his health that carried into the final moments leading up to the 2012 NBA Draft. -------------------------------- "I haven't really been able to see much of Portland yet. But from what I know and somewhat seen, it's a great place to live," Leonard said. "It's a little bit more my style, to be honest with you. It's a little more outdoorsy than maybe other places. I like that. I grew up with that. Not too big, nice people, great fans. Everyone kind of takes you in and makes you feel like you're at home." ... The Blazers have a new coach, as well. Terry Stotts, who spent the past four seasons as the lead assistant with the Mavericks, was hired earlier this month. "We met when I was in Vegas for a camp, got to know each other a little bit. He was actually one of the coaches at the camp," Leonard said. "He just talked about general stuff and got to know me better. One of his main things for me is to become a really, really good defender. That's one thing he's going to look for from me." The Blazers certainly did their homework on Leonard, calling everyone from a former high school coach to family friends. There were two conversations — on draft day — with a former athletic trainer, to make certain his 250-pound frame has no hidden secrets. -------------------------------- -- Ben Golliver | benjamin.golliver@gmail.com | Twitter