Cavaliers Dominate Raptors in NBA Playoffs, Lead Series 2-0

The Cleveland Cavaliers have taken a commanding 2-0 lead in their first-round playoff series against the Toronto Raptors, winning both games decisively. Game 2 concluded with a score of 115-105 at Rocket Arena in Cleveland on April 20, 2026, as seen in a trending post on r/nba, which received over 1,200 upvotes and 350 comments.

Why it matters: The Cavaliers are on a historic playoff run, having won 12 consecutive games against the Raptors, tying the NBA postseason record for the longest winning streak against a single opponent.

• Cleveland has outscored Toronto by double digits in both games, with victories of 126-113 in Game 1 and 115-105 in Game 2.
• Donovan Mitchell and James Harden have been instrumental, with Mitchell averaging 31.0 points per game on 55.8% shooting and Harden contributing 25.0 points per game on 53.1% shooting.

Driving the news: In Game 2, the Cavaliers maintained control throughout the match, leading to a sellout crowd of 19,432 fans. Cleveland's performance showcased their scoring depth, with their big three—Mitchell, Harden, and Evan Mobley—combining for 83 points over the two games.

• Mitchell scored 30 points in Game 2, continuing his streak of scoring 30 or more points in seven consecutive playoff games.
• Mobley also had a strong showing, scoring 25 points and grabbing 8 rebounds in the same game.

State of play: The Raptors are now under pressure as they head back to Toronto for Game 3 on April 23, 2026. Toronto's chances hinge on improving their performance, particularly from key players like Brandon Ingram.

• Ingram, who averaged 17 points in the first game, struggled significantly in Game 2, scoring just 7 points on 3-for-15 shooting.
• Raptors coach Darko Rajakovic emphasized the need for Ingram to regain his scoring touch, stating, "We need him to continue being aggressive in shooting."

The big picture: The Cavaliers have proven to be the stronger team, but the series shifts to Scotiabank Arena, where the Raptors will aim to leverage home-court advantage.

• Toronto has committed 40 turnovers across the first two games, leading to 44 points for Cleveland, a statistic that must improve if they hope to turn the series around.
• Scottie Barnes and RJ Barrett have shown promise, averaging 23.5 and 23.0 points respectively, but need support from Ingram and others.

What they're saying: Players and coaches from both sides are aware of the stakes as the series progresses.

• Max Strus of the Cavaliers remarked, "The series hasn’t even started yet until you go on the road," highlighting the importance of maintaining focus.
• Rajakovic expressed confidence in Ingram, stating, "I’ve got absolute support for him. He’s going to make his shots."

By the numbers: The Cavaliers' statistics from Game 2 reveal their offensive efficiency.

• Cleveland shot 53% from the field, making 44 of 83 attempts, and 32.5% from three-point range, hitting 13 of 40.
• The Cavaliers also secured 35 rebounds, 22 assists, and 13 steals, demonstrating their dominance on both ends of the court.

Between the lines: The Raptors' benching of center Jakob Poeltl in the second half of Game 2 indicates a strategic shift, opting for a smaller lineup to increase pace.

• Poeltl's struggles, scoring only 2 points and grabbing 4 rebounds in 9:26 minutes, may lead to continued adjustments in Toronto's lineup.
• Immanuel Quickley is listed as questionable for Game 3, adding another layer of uncertainty for the Raptors.

What's next: Game 3 will be a make-or-break moment for the Raptors as they seek to avoid falling into a near-insurmountable 3-0 deficit.

• The game is set for April 23, 2026, at 8 p.m. ET and will air on Amazon Prime.
• The point spread currently favors the Cavaliers by 2.5 points, indicating confidence in their ability to extend their series lead.

This article is grounded in a discussion trending on Reddit. Claims from the original post and comments may not represent independently verified reporting.