RJ Barrett hits overtime winner as Toronto Raptors beat Cleveland Cavaliers
RJ Barrett hit a dramatic three-pointer with 1.2 seconds remaining in overtime to secure a 112-110 victory for the Toronto Raptors over the Cleveland Cavaliers and force a deciding Game 7 in their Eastern Conference playoff series.
The Canadian forward’s late heroics rescued the hosts after they surrendered an 11-point fourth-quarter lead at Scotiabank Arena.
Evan Mobley had an opportunity to win the series for Cleveland, but the big man saw his final attempt bounce off the front of the rim as time expired.
The result preserves a unique streak in this bruising first-round matchup, with the home team emerging victorious in all six encounters so far.
Historic moment for Barrett
Barrett’s crucial intervention etched his name into the NBA history books.
He becomes the first player since 1998 to make a game-winning field goal in the final seconds of overtime to avoid playoff elimination.
The talented winger finished the night with 24 points, matching the impressive output of rookie teammate Ja’Kobe Walter.
Barnes orchestrates crucial victory
Scottie Barnes played a masterful role in directing the Toronto offense, recording 25 points alongside a game-high 14 assists.
The dynamic playmaker dominated the opening periods, joining an elite group of just eight players in the modern era to register 14 points and 10 assists in a single playoff half.
This vital offensive rhythm helped mask the absence of Brandon Ingram, who was sidelined with a sore right heel sustained earlier in the week.
Collin Murray-Boyles also provided valuable support, contributing 17 points to keep the Canadian franchise alive.
Cavaliers rue costly turnovers
Despite dominant individual performances, defensive lapses and sloppy possession ultimately doomed the visitors.
Mobley led the way for the Ohio franchise with 26 points and 14 rebounds, while Donovan Mitchell added 24 points.
Veteran guard James Harden endured a difficult shooting night, making just five of his 14 attempts from the floor while committing four of his team’s 18 turnovers.
Toronto ruthlessly capitalised on these Cleveland mistakes, scoring 25 points off turnovers and dominating the fast-break battle.
Both teams will now travel back to Ohio for a decisive winner-takes-all showdown on Sunday.
