NBA News NBA News, Match Reports and Updates
Toronto went to Cleveland with a singular mission. They wanted to do something neither team has done yet in this series: Win on the road. A challenging task on a regular day, even more so in the playoffs. The crowd is unwelcoming. The opponent is more comfortable. It’s no surprise they weren’t able to overcome the obstacle, dropping the game to Cleveland 120-125, but now will return home facing elimination, an even more daunting task.
This matchup was the complete opposite style of game 4. After both teams scored in double figures the last time out, this contest saw both teams in triple figures before the fourth quarter even started. With a 40-point second quarter in the mix, there was no shortage of scoring.
Advertisement
At times, Toronto struggled with the same things they have all series: closing quarters, over-helping, and struggling from the free-throw line. They proved to be their undoing once again, as this will remain the game that got away.
Despite the struggles, there were a number of solid performances that helped give Raps fans some hope for when they return home. Barnes, Barrett, Murray-Boyles, and Walter all had excellent games, with the bench tandem of Shead and Mamu giving it their all as well.
Barnes finished with 17-5-9, playing a solid all-around game that no one could be mad about. He continues to impress as the floor general, generating a good portion of Toronto’s scoring, especially in the first half. RJ finished with 22-9-4, also a solid game for him as he continues to have a great series as well.
Advertisement
Murray-Boyles has been a difference maker in this series, his defensive effort and activity on the offensive board gaining Toronto extra possessions. Despite being undersized in some matchups, he continues to show no hesitation, even going toe-to-toe with Mobley:
Walter found his rhythm tonight, a welcome sight after an 0-9 performance in game 4. He took no time getting going, scoring 17 points in the first half alone, connecting consistently from long range.
The first looked like a summary of the entire series so far. Both teams exchanged baskets leading to a close quarter….
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/toronto-drops-close-game-5-023329065.html
Author :
Publish date : 2026-04-30 02:33:00
Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.
