The Cleveland Cavaliers didn't have too many problems against the Toronto Raptors in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals. The Cavs put up at least 30 points in each of the first three quarters and cruised to a 116-105 win in a game that wasn't as close as the final score indicates. Every time the Raptors would start to cut into the lead, the Cavs would respond with a run of their own.
LeBron James and Kyrie Irving led the way for the Cavs. Irving had 24 points and 10 assists, including this absurd alley-oop to James.
Oh wow - @KyrieIrving goes off the backboard to @KingJames who throws down the slam with his left hand! #DefendtheLand #nbaplayoffs pic.twitter.com/Rqvrthj4Kd
— Chat Sports (@ChatSports) May 1, 2017
Irving also showed off his nasty handles.
Kyrie Irving's handles are absurd. Even the bench couldn't believe it. #DefendtheLand pic.twitter.com/50igfRI86f
— Chat Sports (@ChatSports) May 2, 2017
James was sharp throughout, with 35 points, 10 rebounds and four assists. He seemed to enjoy himself on the court, highlighted by when he nearly took a sip of beer during the game.
LeBron James (@KingJames) was really tempted to take a quick drink of a beer during the game. Seems to be enjoying himself. #DefendtheLand pic.twitter.com/OmSzR0cuxm
— Chat Sports (@ChatSports) May 2, 2017
James' defense was in playoff form.
LeBron James denies DeMar DeRozan at the rim! #DefendtheLand pic.twitter.com/Es77A3kwu0
— Chat Sports (@ChatSports) May 2, 2017
Tristan Thompson and Kevin Love also played well. Thompson posted a double-double with 11 points and 14 rebounds. Love had 18 points and 9 boards, plus this nifty and-1.
Kevin Love somehow gets the basket and the foul! J.R. Smith loved it. #DefendtheLand pic.twitter.com/jWXF9swZ8r
— Chat Sports (@ChatSports) May 1, 2017
As for the Raptors, Kyle Lowry played well in Game 1. He posted 20 points and 11 assists, while DeMar DeRozan had 19. Serge Ibaka had 15 points, six rebounds and three assists, while P.J. Tucker's 13 points and Norman Powell's 12 rounded out the Raptors in double figures.
Game 2 of the series is Wednesday in Cleveland. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. ET.
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