Cavaliers Beat Raptors in Game 1, Mitchell Scores 24

The Cavaliers won Game 1 of the NBA Playoffs against the Raptors. Donovan Mitchell scored 24 points, leading the team.
By Newsroom | Sports, Basketball |

CAVS SECURE WIN IN PLAYOFF OPENER

The Cleveland Cavaliers decisively defeated the Toronto Raptors in Game 1 of their NBA Playoff series. With just under seven minutes remaining in the fourth quarter, the Cavaliers held a commanding 113-95 lead. Donovan Mitchell spearheaded Cleveland's offense, scoring 11 points in the third quarter alone and leading all scorers with 24 points heading into the final period.

Follow live: Cavaliers host Raptors in Game 1 - 1

The Cavaliers established their dominance with a significant run early in the third quarter, outscoring the Raptors 21-6, including a 9-0 spurt to start the second half. This surge allowed Cleveland to pull away and maintain control of the game.

Follow live: Cavaliers host Raptors in Game 1 - 2

BROADCAST SHIFTS TO STREAMING EXCLUSIVE

Game 1 marked a new era for NBA playoff broadcasts, with Amazon Prime Video holding exclusive streaming rights. The matchup between the Cavaliers and Raptors, scheduled for 1 p.m. ET on Saturday, April 18, 2026, was not available on traditional television channels. This shift to a streaming-only platform represents a significant change in how fans can access postseason NBA action.

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Follow live: Cavaliers host Raptors in Game 1 - 3

GAME DETAILS AND TEAM STATS

The game took place at the Rocket Arena in Cleveland. Thomas Bryant of the Cavaliers was ruled out due to a calf strain. In terms of season performance, the Cavaliers averaged 119.5 points per game, exceeding the Raptors' average allowance of 111.8 points. The Raptors, seeded fifth in the Eastern Conference at 46-36, returned to the playoffs after a hiatus.

Follow live: Cavaliers host Raptors in Game 1 - 4

Pre-game odds indicated a lean towards the Cavaliers, with a spread of Cleveland -8.5. The Cavaliers' win percentage was listed at an overwhelming 99.9%. Notably, the Raptors had won the season series against the Cavaliers three times previously, each by a double-digit margin.

OTHER NOTABLE PLAYOFF ACTION

The NBA playoffs commenced with multiple Game 1 matchups on Saturday, April 18. Other games included the Nuggets facing the Timberwolves, and the Knicks playing the Hawks. This weekend's slate also featured the Lakers against the Rockets.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How did the Cleveland Cavaliers perform against the Toronto Raptors in Game 1 of the NBA Playoffs?
The Cleveland Cavaliers won Game 1 decisively against the Toronto Raptors. They had a large lead of 113-95 with under seven minutes left in the fourth quarter.
Q: Who was the top scorer for the Cavaliers in Game 1 against the Raptors?
Donovan Mitchell was the top scorer for the Cavaliers. He scored 24 points, with 11 of those coming in the third quarter.
Q: Where could fans watch Game 1 between the Cavaliers and Raptors?
Game 1 was exclusively streamed on Amazon Prime Video. It was not shown on traditional TV channels.
Q: What was the score difference when the Cavaliers started to take control in Game 1?
The Cavaliers went on a strong run in the third quarter, outscoring the Raptors 21-6. This helped them build a lead they maintained for the rest of the game.