RJ Barrett’s Clutch 3-Pointer Forces Game 7 as Raptors Edge Cavaliers in OT Thriller
TORONTO — In a heart-stopping overtime finish, RJ Barrett delivered the dagger with a game-winning 3-pointer in the final seconds, propelling the Toronto Raptors to a 112-110 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Friday night. The win extends the Eastern Conference first-round playoff series to a decisive Game 7, set for Sunday in Cleveland.
With just 1.2 seconds left in overtime, Barrett’s shot ricocheted high off the back rim before dropping through the net, sending the sold-out Scotiabank Arena crowd of 19,919 into a frenzy. The Cavaliers had one last chance to steal the win, but Evan Mobley’s desperation 3-pointer clanked off the front iron as time expired.
A Series Defined by Home-Court Dominance
The victory keeps the Raptors alive in a series where home teams have won all six games. Toronto now faces the daunting task of breaking that trend in Cleveland, where they’ve lost all 10 of their previous playoff contests—including three in this series.
“This is why you fight for home-court advantage,” Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson said. “We knew this wouldn’t be easy. Now we regroup and get ready for Sunday.”
Barnes Shines, Barrett Seals It
Scottie Barnes led the Raptors with a stellar performance, finishing with 25 points and 14 assists—becoming just the eighth NBA player since 1997 to record at least 14 points and 10 assists in a single playoff half. Barrett and rookie Ja’Kobe Walter each added 24 points, while Collin Murray-Boyles chipped in 17.
For Cleveland, Mobley dominated with 26 points and 14 rebounds, while Donovan Mitchell contributed 24 points. James Harden struggled with efficiency (5-for-14 shooting) but still managed 16 points, nine rebounds, and nine assists.
A Rollercoaster Finish
Toronto appeared in control late, holding an 11-point fourth-quarter lead before Cleveland stormed back to force overtime. The Raptors’ aggressive defense forced 18 Cavaliers turnovers, converting them into 25 points. They also dominated in transition, outscoring Cleveland 20-6 in fast-break opportunities.
Barrett’s game-winner evoked memories of another iconic Toronto playoff moment—Kawhi Leonard’s four-bounce buzzer-beater against Philadelphia in 2019.
“When it went straight up, I knew it had a chance,” Barrett said with a grin.
Raptors coach Darko Rajakovic joked about his premonition before the game. “Call me psychic, but I saw this coming. That shot felt like an eternity in the air.”
What’s Next?
With everything on the line in Game 7, Mitchell emphasized Cleveland’s mindset: “Protect home court. Doesn’t matter if we lost by 30 or two—we have to take care of business.”
Toronto faces uncertainty with forward Brandon Ingram, who sat out with a sore heel. His status for Sunday remains unclear.
One thing is certain: After another classic playoff battle, the winner-take-all showdown in Cleveland promises high drama.
— Reported by Nexio News
