Jason Miller, Getty Images
The Cleveland Cavaliers came into game 1 of their first round series vs the Toronto Raptors, looking to make a big statement, and take a 1-0 series lead.
The Cavs did exactly that, defeating the Raptors 126-113.
The Cavs started off kind of slow at first, leading 61-54 at the end of the first half, but quickly got things going, out scoring the Raptors 36-22 in the 3rd quarter, starting the 2nd half on a 9-0 run.
Max Strus was phenomenal, being the spark in the big 3rd quarter, scoring 24 off the bench, going 4-6 from three. Strus also had a fantastic leaping layup before the clock expired in the 1st quarter off a beautiful assist from Donovan Mitchell. Strus leaped in the air, caught the pass, and laid the ball in with time expiring on the clock.
Video Credit: @ Pikkit on X/ NBA
The Cavs were led offensively but Donovan Mitchell of course, scoring 32 points on 11-20 shooting, and 4-7 from three. Mitchell has been so consistent in Game 1s of a playoff series, scoring at least 30 points in his last 8 game 1s.
The Cavs dominated the whole second half, pretty much having their way on offense, and shut the Raptors down on defense.
The Cavs were very aggressive in the paint with thunderous dunk after dunk for Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. As well as having 52 points in the paint.
The Cleveland Crowd was into the game from the opening tip and were loud all game.
The Cavs are back to work on Monday night, looking to take a 2-0 series lead over Toronto, and to take care of home court.
Tip off at 7:00 PM ET on Peacock.
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