NBA Playoffs 2026: The Cavs survive Game 7 against the Raptors

Cleveland Cavaliers secured their spot in the Eastern Conference semifinals of the 2026 NBA Playoffs by defeating the Toronto Raptors 114-102 in the seventh game, in a night marked by Jarrett Allen's authority. The center matched his playoff best with 22 points and also delivered an impressive rebounding performance, grabbing 19 boards.

In a match where home-court advantage proved decisive — the home team won all seven games in the series — Cleveland managed to set their pace in key moments to definitively tilt the series in their favor.

Offensive contributions also came from Donovan Mitchell, who tied with Allen as the team's top scorer with 22 points, while James Harden added 18 in a collective effort that allowed the Cleveland Cavaliers to close out the series convincingly.

Immediately after the game, Mitchell made it clear that the team is already focused on the next challenge: the Detroit Pistons, the top seed, will be their opponent in the second round, with the first game scheduled for Tuesday. During the regular season, both teams split victories in their four matchups.

A Game-Changing Stretch

The game had a very clear turning point. Cleveland Cavaliers staged a spectacular 49-21 run over a 15-minute stretch between the second and third quarters, turning a nine-point deficit into a decisive 19-point lead.

During that period, Allen was a key figure, contributing 14 points and 10 rebounds — five of them offensive. One of the standout plays came in the third quarter when he finished a fast break with a dunk after a steal by Max Strus from Scottie Barnes, putting the score at 74-59.

Dominance on Both Ends

In that decisive stretch, Cleveland showed tremendous efficiency: converting 17 of 33 field goals, including five triples, and capitalizing on Toronto's turnovers, turning seven opponent errors into 14 points.

In contrast, the Toronto Raptors struggled to find offensive rhythm, going 6 for 23 from the field and just 1 for 8 from beyond the arc in the same period.

Furthermore, the rebounding dominance was overwhelming. Cleveland Cavaliers outscored Toronto 25-8 in the battle under the boards, generating 10 offensive rebounds that translated into 14 additional points.

Toronto Battles to the End

Despite the defeat, the Toronto Raptors found answers in Scottie Barnes, who concluded with 24 points and nine rebounds, and RJ Barrett, scoring 23 points. The Canadian team returned to the playoffs for the first time since 2022 and displayed a competitive spirit.

However, the absence of Brandon Ingram, who missed his second consecutive game due to a contusion in his right heel, also influenced the team's chances.

Coach Darko Rajakovic acknowledged his players' efforts after the game, highlighting the intensity and competitive level shown against a rival that emerged victorious in crucial moments.