The Cavaliers lost a 19-point lead in the fourth quarter, but LeBron James led a determined closing kick as they claimed a much-coveted 120-112 win over the Toronto Raptors at Air Canada Centre on Wednesday.
As a result, they moved into a three-way tie for the No. 2 spot in the Eastern Conference standings with Chicago and Toronto.
James was instrumental in staving off Toronto, scoring 15 of his game-high 29 points in the final quarter. He had another wobbly moment at the free throw line — missing a pair after a flagrant foul by the Raptors’ Jonas Valanciunas and missing five of 13 overall — but his attacking and penetrating game was sharp and decisive.
Consecutive three-pointers in the final minutes gave the Cavaliers needed breathing room. He also grabbed six rebounds and dished out a game-high 14 assists.
Kyrie Irving produced 26 points and eight assists in 41 minutes. The point guard got to the hole at will and finished multiple spectacular layups in traffic.
Kevin Love secured his team-leading 31st double double of the season. He was left open repeatedly and he capitalized, nailing four threes and finishing the game with 22 points and 10 boards. He has drained 21 treys in the last six games.
Cleveland’s 15 three-pointers were the most made against Toronto this season.
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