BROADCAST SHIFT
The Cleveland Cavaliers and Toronto Raptors commenced their NBA playoff series today, marking a significant shift in how postseason games are accessed. Game 1, held at the Rocket Arena in Cleveland, tipped off at 1 p.m. ET. Crucially, this game, and indeed the entirety of the NBA Playoffs this year, will be exclusively streamed on Amazon Prime Video, a departure from traditional television broadcasting.
The playoff stream marks the first time Amazon Prime Video has held exclusive broadcast rights for the NBA Playoffs, signifying a move towards digital-first consumption of major sporting events.
MATCHUP DETAILS
The Cavaliers entered the contest with a stronger win percentage according to available data, estimated at 59.0%. Statistical breakdowns point to the Cavaliers' offense averaging 119.5 points per game, a notable advantage over the Raptors' defense which allows 111.8 points per game. Conversely, the Raptors score 114.6 points per game, only slightly less than the Cavaliers' surrendered average of 115.4 points.
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Game Time: 1 p.m. ET, April 18, 2026
Venue: Rocket Arena, Cleveland, Ohio
Streaming: Amazon Prime Video (exclusive)
TV Channel: None
Officials: Sean Corbin, Tony Brothers, Karl Lane, Brent Barnaky
INJURY AND ROSTER NOTES
Thomas Bryant is listed as out for the Cavaliers due to a calf injury.
Immanuel Quickley is questionable for the Raptors with a hamstring issue.
GAMBLING LINES
Betting odds indicated the Cavaliers were favored by 8.5 points, with a moneyline of -375. The Raptors were the underdogs at +290 on the moneyline. The total points over/under was set at 119.5.
CONTEXT
This marks the first playoff encounter between these two teams in this particular configuration. The broader NBA landscape also features other high-profile first-round matchups, including a series pitting LeBron James against Kevin Durant in the Western Conference. Elsewhere, Gregg Popovich, the former coach of the San Antonio Spurs, was noted for addressing his team prior to their playoff series.
