Dukes Tyrese Proctor: A Potential NBA Contributor with Connective Playmaking and Defensive Abilities
As a 6-5 combo guard with a great passing vision, Tyrese Proctor has been expected to be a one-and-done prospect in the NBA draft. However, after three years at Duke University, Proctor has finally looked ready to make the leap to the professional level. In his junior year, he has sharpened his jumper and become an even better defender, making him a valuable asset for any NBA team.
Proctor’s connective playmaking is one of his biggest strengths. He is a beautiful passer who can use either hand to fire darts around the floor with confidence and fearlessness. Despite his height, he is not a below-the-rim player and can finish at the basket with finesse. Synergy data shows that he made 49.3% of his layups as a Duke junior, which is a solid percentage for a player of his size.
On the perimeter, Proctor has improved significantly in all three years of his college career. As a junior, he shot 37.2% on catch-and-shoot 3s, 40.5% on dribble-jumper 3s, and 52.9% on pull-up 2s. While he is not a knockdown shooter off catch-and-shoot attempts, he is serviceable and can contribute to any team’s offense.
Defensively, Proctor is a long-armed defender who plays with heart, effort, and IQ both on and off the ball. He is a valuable asset for any team looking for a defensive-minded combo guard who can also contribute to the offense.
However, Proctor does have some concerns that need to be addressed before he can be considered a top prospect in the NBA draft. His athleticism is not elite, both vertically and with his first step. He may be better suited as one of a team’s multiple creators rather than a lead option.
In conclusion, Tyrese Proctor is a talented combo guard who has taken until his junior year to look ready for the NBA. With his connective playmaking, perimeter scoring, and defensive abilities, he has the potential to be a valuable contributor for any NBA team. For more information on Tyrese Proctor and other prospects in the NBA draft, check out my NBA Draft Guide.
