The Cleveland Cavaliers kicked off the 2026 NBA playoffs with a commanding 126-113 victory over the Toronto Raptors. Donovan Mitchell led all scorers with 32 points, showcasing his offensive prowess, while James Harden made a notable playoff debut with 22 points and 10 assists. Max Strus, who had been sidelined for most of the season due to injury, made a significant impact off the bench, scoring 24 points. The Cavaliers' defense was key, holding the Raptors to just 59 points in the second half, including a mere 22 points in the third quarter. This strong performance gives the Cavaliers a 1-0 lead in the series. The Raptors will need to adjust their strategy, particularly in the absence of guard Immanuel Quickley, who is recovering from a hamstring injury, to improve their offensive rhythm in the upcoming Game 2.