Cavaliers Top Raptors in Game 7: Cleveland Advances to ECF Semifinals
May 4, 2026 | Cleveland, Ohio | Rocket Arena
Final Result: Cavaliers 115, Raptors 108
The Cleveland Cavaliers secured a dramatic 115-108 victory over the Toronto Raptors in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference First Round, advancing to the ECF Semifinals. The win ended a thrilling series that saw both teams battle through six games, with the Raptors winning Game 6 in overtime just two nights prior.
The Cavaliers’ victory was led by Evan Mobley (28 points, 14 rebounds), who dominated the paint, and Donovan Mitchell (32 points, 7 assists), who delivered clutch performances in the final quarter. Meanwhile, the Raptors’ Scottie Barnes (30 points, 12 rebounds) and RJ Barrett (24 points, 8 rebounds) fought hard but could not overcome Cleveland’s late surge.
Key Moments and Turning Points
The game was a back-and-forth affair, with neither team able to establish a significant lead until the fourth quarter. Here are the pivotal moments:
- First Half: The Cavaliers took an early lead, with Mitchell and Mobley combining for 18 points in the first quarter. The Raptors responded with a 26-24 run in the second quarter, but Cleveland held on to lead 52-46 at halftime.
- Third Quarter: The Raptors cut the deficit to 74-70 with Barnes and Barrett leading the charge. Though, the Cavaliers’ defense tightened, and Mobley’s mid-range shots proved decisive.
- Fourth Quarter: Cleveland pulled away with a 10-2 run in the final minutes, sealing the win. Mitchell’s three-pointer with 2:30 remaining put the Cavaliers up 108-98, and they held on despite a late Raptors rally.
Standout Performances
The following players delivered standout performances:
| Player | Team | Points | Rebounds | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Evan Mobley | Cavaliers | 28 | 14 | 5 |
| Donovan Mitchell | Cavaliers | 32 | 5 | 7 |
| Scottie Barnes | Raptors | 30 | 12 | 4 |
| RJ Barrett | Raptors | 24 | 8 | 3 |
What So for the Playoffs
The Cavaliers’ victory sends them to the ECF Semifinals, where they will face the top-seeded Boston Celtics. The Raptors’ season ends here, but their run to Game 7 has been one of the most memorable playoff stories of the year.
The Cavaliers’ series win likewise solidifies their position as a formidable team in the Eastern Conference. With Mitchell and Mobley leading the way, Cleveland will look to build on this momentum in their next series.
Next Steps and Schedule
The Cavaliers will now prepare for their ECF Semifinals matchup against the Boston Celtics. The first game of that series is scheduled for May 7, 2026, at 7:30 PM ET at Rocket Arena.
The Raptors will begin their offseason preparations, with free agency and potential roster changes on the horizon.
Key Takeaways
- The Cavaliers’ defense and depth proved decisive in the final quarter, shutting down the Raptors’ late push.
- Evan Mobley’s all-around game (28 points, 14 rebounds) was the difference-maker for Cleveland.
- Scottie Barnes and RJ Barrett led the Raptors’ fight, but Cleveland’s experience and clutch performances won out.
- The series was a testament to the resilience of both teams, with neither willing to back down until the final buzzer.
How to Follow the Next Series
For updates on the Cavaliers’ ECF Semifinals matchup against the Celtics, follow NBA.com/Cavaliers or NBA Standings for the latest schedule, and results.
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