Duke was so close to the NCAA championship game that they could taste it. They had a 14-point lead in the second half of their Final Four game against Houston before taking an unfortunate loss after making critical errors down the stretch.
Despite the loss, the NBA Draft stock of several players on the team definitely got a boost. One player who might see that share is Tyrese Proctor, the junior guard for the Blue Devils. Proctor averaged 12.4 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 2.2 assists on 45.2% from the field and 40.5% from 3.
While Proctor had an uneven performance in the loss to Houston, his performance in the tournament overall should have his draft stock around the middle to late first round. Who could be in range to draft Proctor?
5 NBA Teams That Could Draft Tyrese Proctor
Orlando Magic
The Orlando Magic need some improved guard energy on the floor. They do not have the proper guards for their team, but that could change in the future if Proctor develops into a star.
While Proctor has not been a dynamic passer in his time at Duke, he possesses the one thing that the Magic severely lack: the ability to shoot the 3. Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner could use some backcourt assistance as they attempt to build their own dynasty in the future, and Proctor has the tools to grow into that.
Miami Heat
This is a team that could look Proctor’s way, especially since his work ethic seems to fit in perfectly with the Miami Heat culture. Tyler Herro could help Proctor with his facilitating and possibly improve his passing, while Bam Adebayo could help the young guard grow his defensive ability even further. The Heat do have some holes that need to be filled as far as outside shooting, which allows Proctor to be a great fit in that aspect.
Boston Celtics
The rich get richer? There’s already a Duke star in Boston, so why not add one more?
The Boston Celtics could draft Proctor if they feel he is a win-now player, which in many ways, he is. While not the most crisp facilitator, Proctor is a very solid defender, a 40% 3-point shooter, and a good scorer. The Celtics are very 3-point heavy, which makes Proctor a potentially perfect fit. He could help take their bench to the next level as a floor general.
Brooklyn Nets
The Brooklyn Nets seem like a no-brainer for Proctor, considering their need for a point guard of the future. Proctor might not be starting Day 1 if he joins the Nets, but considering the state of the team, he might end up in the starting lineup sooner rather than later.
This would provide Proctor with a chance to find his footing in the league. His 3-point shooting would be a perfect complement to the team, especially if he has playing time next to sharpshooter forward Cam Johnson. Would the Nets be willing to bring in the crafty guard?
Charlotte Hornets
While Charlotte is expected to have a lottery pick, they also possess the 33rd pick in the draft. That pick could go to Proctor if he’s still available.
Oftentimes, veteran players can fall in the draft, and the third-year Australian guard could be an example of that. If so, the Charlotte Hornets should absolutely take the chance. LaMelo Ball is the starting point guard for the Hornets, but his injury history and lack of defensive intensity could lead the Hornets to look elsewhere for further depth or for the future.
If the Hornets do intend to look elsewhere, why not start with a dynamic young guard who can shoot the 3 well and puts in the effort on defense? Will Proctor go in the first round or second round? While PFSN’s Kyle Soppe left him out in his recent 2025 NBA Mock Draft, several other experts believe he could be a first-rounder, but anything can happen.