Cleveland Rallies in the Fourth to Stun Raptors
In a game of runs and high drama, the Cleveland Cavaliers proved their mettle, overturning a 12-point second-half deficit to defeat the Toronto Raptors 125-120. The win gives Cleveland a pivotal 3-2 series lead as the action shifts back to Toronto for Game 6.
Schroder Takes Over
The story of the fourth quarter was Dennis Schroder. The veteran guard scored 11 of his 19 points in the final period, relentlessly attacking the basket and finding open shooters as Toronto's defense collapsed.
"We just stayed the course," Schroder said after the game. "We knew if we got stops, the offense would come. Evan [Mobley] made some huge shots that opened everything up."
The Mobley Evolution
Evan Mobley finished with 23 points, but it was his two late three-pointers that changed the complexion of the game. Traditionally a paint presence, Mobley's expanding range has become a nightmare for the Raptors' defensive scheme. James Harden also contributed 23 points and 9 rebounds, operating the offense with precision down the stretch.
Raptors Hit by Injury Bug
Toronto's night took a turn for the worse in the first half when star forward Brandon Ingram exited with a heel injury. He did not return, and his status for Game 6 remains uncertain. RJ Barrett fought valiantly, recording a double-double with 25 points and 12 rebounds, but the Raptors' offense sputtered late without Ingram's shot-making. Scottie Barnes finished with 11 assists but struggled to find his own shot in the closing minutes.
Key Game 5 Prop Angles
- Evan Mobley Over 18.5 Points: (HIT) Mobley's aggressive play in the second half pushed him well over his line.
- Dennis Schroder Over 5.5 Assists: (HIT) Schroder's playmaking in the 4th was the difference.
- RJ Barrett Over 22.5 Points: (HIT) Barrett shouldered the load after Ingram's exit.
Series Status: Cavaliers lead 3-2.
