by Not even a week ago, the Cleveland Cavaliers looked like they were in full control of this best-of-seven first-round series against the Toronto Raptors. Now, heading into Game 5 tonight, it feels like a completely different series.
After jumping out to a 2-0 lead, the Cavs dropped both games in Toronto, leaving the series tied 2-2. At first, it looked like it could be a quick series, with many saying “Cavs in 5.” It has now turned into a real test, with the Cavs needing to be the team to respond.
Cavs superstar Donovan Mitchell was a big part of why Cleveland had success early in the series, but in Games 3 and 4, he did not look like the same player. Whether it was tough defensive pressure or having off nights, he struggled to find a rhythm, and the entire team felt it. It is hard to win games when your best player isn’t producing at a high level.
James Harden also struggled in Games 3 and 4. Harden has always been known for “not producing in the playoffs.” It looked like he proved that wrong with his strong performances in Games 1 and 2, but Games 3 and 4 were a different story. In both games, Harden had more turnovers than FG’s (made shots). That is something you don’t see often, and he needs to step it up tonight.
At the same time, Cleveland can’t fall into the trap of relying on their two best players to fix everything. When the Cavs were at their best in the first two games, the ball was moving, everyone was getting involved, and the offense felt balanced. In the last two games, that same type of play disappeared.
In Toronto, many possessions felt forced. Instead of working for good shots, things seemed rushed, and that helped the Raptors. Against a team like the Toronto Raptors, that’s never going to work. The Cavs need to find a way to go back to their play from Games 1 and 2.
A benefit for the Cavs tonight is being back at home. The Cavs fed off the crowd in Games 1 and 2, and they’ll need that again tonight. Game 5 in a tied series is always big, and this is one of those moments where the home team has to take advantage.
If the Cavs go up 3-2, they’re back in control. If they lose, they’ll be facing elimination on the road this Friday.
The Cavs have already shown that they can beat the Raptors. Now it’s about proving they can respond after a rough two games in Toronto. The best teams always find a way to bounce back when things start to slip.
Tonight, at 7:30, the Cleveland Cavaliers have a chance to take back control of the series on their home floor.
