“Raptors Secretly Eyeing Duke Guard in Second Round—You’ll Never Guess Who They Interviewed!”

Raptors Secretly Eyeing Duke Guard in Second Round—You’ll Never Guess Who They Interviewed!

In a surprising development, the Toronto Raptors have reportedly conducted a private interview with Duke University guard Tyrese Proctor, a player projected to go in the second round of the upcoming 2025 NBA Draft. This move has stirred intrigue among fans and analysts, as Proctor’s name hadn’t been prominently linked with the Raptors’ draft plans until now.

Proctor, a 6-foot-5 sophomore guard from Australia, has been a steady presence in Duke’s backcourt. Known for his court vision, defensive tenacity, and ability to manage the game’s tempo, he averaged 9.4 points, 3.3 assists, and 1.2 steals per game during the 2024-2025 season. While his shooting percentages were modest, his leadership and basketball IQ have been praised by coaches and scouts alike.

The Raptors’ interest in Proctor aligns with their historical preference for versatile, high-IQ players who can contribute on both ends of the floor. Given Toronto’s current roster composition, adding a guard with Proctor’s skill set could provide valuable depth and flexibility in the backcourt.

Toronto holds the 39th pick in the second round, a spot where Proctor is projected to be available. This position offers the Raptors an opportunity to select a player with first-round potential without the associated cost, a strategy they’ve successfully employed in the past.

The Raptors’ front office, led by President Masai Ujiri and General Manager Bobby Webster, has a track record of uncovering hidden gems in the draft. Notable examples include the selections of Pascal Siakam and OG Anunoby, both of whom were picked outside the lottery and have developed into key contributors.

Proctor’s international experience, having played for Australia’s national teams at various levels, adds another layer to his appeal. His exposure to different playing styles and high-pressure situations could ease his transition to the NBA.

The Raptors’ scouting department has been known to value players with diverse backgrounds and experiences, believing that such players bring unique perspectives and adaptability to the team. Proctor’s journey from Australia to Duke and now potentially to Toronto fits this mold.

While Proctor’s offensive game is still developing, particularly his shooting consistency, the Raptors have a strong player development program. Their coaching staff has a history of helping players improve their skills, suggesting that Proctor could refine his shooting mechanics and become a more reliable scorer over time.

Defensively, Proctor’s length and anticipation make him a disruptive presence on the perimeter. His ability to guard multiple positions and read passing lanes aligns with the Raptors’ defensive schemes, which emphasize versatility and aggression.

The potential addition of Proctor also raises questions about the Raptors’ broader draft strategy. With the 7th overall pick, they are expected to target a frontcourt player, possibly Duke center Khaman Maluach, to address their need for size and rim protection. Selecting Proctor in the second round would complement this move by bolstering the backcourt.

This dual approach reflects the Raptors’ commitment to building a balanced roster with talent across all positions. By addressing multiple needs in the draft, they aim to accelerate their rebuilding process and return to playoff contention.

Proctor’s potential fit with the Raptors extends beyond the court. His reputation as a hard worker and team-first player resonates with the organization’s culture, which values character and professionalism.

Moreover, Proctor’s familiarity with fellow Duke prospects, such as Maluach and Kon Knueppel, could facilitate chemistry and cohesion if multiple Blue Devils join the Raptors. This shared background might ease their integration into the team and contribute to a positive locker room environment.

The Raptors’ interest in Proctor also underscores the importance of thorough scouting and due diligence. By exploring all available options and conducting comprehensive evaluations, they position themselves to make informed decisions that align with their long-term vision.

As the draft approaches, fans and analysts will be watching closely to see if the Raptors follow through on their interest in Proctor. His selection would signal a continued commitment to identifying and developing under-the-radar talent.

In conclusion, the Raptors’ reported interview with Tyrese Proctor adds an intriguing dimension to their draft plans. While not a headline-grabbing move, it reflects a strategic approach to roster building that prioritizes fit, potential, and organizational culture.

Should the Raptors select Proctor with their second-round pick, it would be consistent with their history of uncovering value in the draft’s later stages. Only time will tell if Proctor becomes the next success story in Toronto’s development pipeline.

For now, the possibility of adding a high-IQ, defensively capable guard like Proctor offers a glimpse into the Raptors’ meticulous and forward-thinking approach to team building.

As the 2025 NBA Draft nears, the Raptors’ fans can look forward to an exciting infusion of talent, with Proctor potentially playing a key role in the team’s future success.

Stay tuned for more updates as the draft unfolds and the Raptors continue to shape their roster for the seasons ahead.