Cavaliers Rally Late To Take 3-2 Playoff Series Lead
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Cleveland rallied Wednesday night in Game 5, as Dennis Schroder scored 11 of his 19 points in the fourth quarter and Evan Mobley hit two pivotal 3-pointers to help the Cavaliers defeat the Toronto Raptors 125-120 and seize a 3-2 lead in the first-round series at home.
The Cavaliers’ comeback followed a halftime deficit and a 103-100 deficit entering the fourth; James Harden contributed 23 points and Donovan Mitchell added 19, while Toronto’s RJ Barrett led his team with 25. Brandon Ingram left with right heel inflammation, and Game 6 is scheduled for Friday in Toronto with the Raptors facing elimination.
More context
Timeline
- 1. Prior to Game 5, the playoff series between Cleveland and Toronto was competitive with neither team clinching advantage.
- 2. Wednesday night: Toronto led 74-67 at halftime but Cleveland closed to trail 103-100 entering the fourth quarter.
- 3. Early fourth quarter: Cleveland scored the first eight points to seize momentum and a lead.
- 4. Late fourth quarter: Schroder scored 11 points, Mobley hit pivotal 3-pointers, and Cleveland finished 9-for-19 in the period.
- 5. After Game 5: Cleveland won 125-120, took a 3-2 series lead, and Game 6 was scheduled for Friday in Toronto; Ingram left Game 5 with right heel inflammation.
Why it matters
If you're a Cavaliers fan, this win is a big deal. It puts Cleveland one step closer to advancing in the playoffs. For Toronto fans, it's a tense time as the Raptors face elimination. If you're a basketball enthusiast, this series has been a nail-biter worth watching.
Sources
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