Cavaliers Take 2-0 Series Lead Over Raptors

The Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Toronto Raptors 115-105 in an NBA Eastern Conference first-round playoff game on Monday night. The Cavaliers now lead the series 2-0.

The Cavaliers did not trail during the game.

Key Performances

For the Cavaliers, Donovan Mitchell scored 30 points, James Harden scored 28 points, and Evan Mobley scored 25 points with 8 rebounds.

For the Raptors, Scottie Barnes scored a playoff career-high 26 points, and RJ Barrett scored 22 points with 9 rebounds.

How the Game Unfolded

The Cavaliers established a strong lead, holding a 73-57 advantage midway through the third quarter. The Raptors responded with a 16-6 scoring run to close the gap.

In the fourth quarter, a layup by Scottie Barnes brought the Raptors within 9 points at 99-90. Donovan Mitchell then scored 7 consecutive points for the Cavaliers to help secure the victory.

Notable Statistics and Records

• This is the second consecutive season and fourth time overall the Cavaliers have had at least three players score 25 or more points in a postseason game.
• The Cavaliers have won 12 consecutive playoff games against the Raptors, tying an NBA postseason record for consecutive wins against a single opponent. This streak began in the 2016 Eastern Conference finals.
• James Harden recorded 4 assists, moving him into seventh place on the NBA's all-time playoff assists list with 1,139. He also had 5 steals.

What's Next

Game 3 of the series is scheduled for Thursday night in Toronto.