Tyrese Proctor is giving Cavs more reasons to keep him on the floor

Meleek Thomas has understandably attracted plenty of attention in the Cavaliers’ backcourt. But Tyrese Proctor is making a case for minutes, too.

And for a team that needs to finish more defensive possessions with a rebound, Proctor is finding a useful way to contribute.

The second-year guard collected four rebounds to go with 10 points and two assists in Monday’s loss to the Thunder. That followed six rebounds against the Hawks and four against the Bucks. Those aren’t enormous numbers, but getting that help from a reserve guard adds up.

Proctor sees another benefit. When he gets the rebound, he can get the offense moving.

“And I feel like if I’m getting rebounds defensively, offensively, but mainly defensively, I can just push the pace in transition, get better shots,” Proctor said, via Grant Afseth of Cavs Roundtable. “And then I think defensively as well, just being able to bully screens, early hits, early bumps, and just enforcing my will.”

That fits what Kenny Atkinson wants. It also gives Proctor a way to influence games without needing a steady stream of shots, something worth keeping in mind on a roster with Donovan Mitchell and James Harden.

Against the Thunder, Proctor scored his 10 points on just four field-goal attempts in 18 minutes. He made two 3-pointers, both free throws and helped the Cavs outscore Oklahoma City by five while he was on the floor.

One night’s plus-minus won’t settle a rotation. But efficient offense, activity on the glass and an understanding of where to be will help a young guard stay in it.

“I feel real comfortable out there, obviously, with a whole bunch of different lineups,” Proctor said, via Afseth. “So just trying to pick and choose my spots and get everyone involved at the same time.”

Mario Hezonja has noticed.

“Tyrese just being that smart, constantly pushing, constantly being in a good positioning and playing off the ball as well, understanding the flow of the game, understanding his spot,” Hezonja said. “So that’s huge for us.”

The Cavs still have plenty to clean up heading into Wednesday’s rematch at Oklahoma City. Proctor’s recent contributions, though, give Atkinson something to build on. He doesn’t need to dominate possessions to earn a place in the game.

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