Donovan Mitchell Leads Cavs to Game 1 Playoff Win Over Raptors

Cavs guard discusses team's strong performance, Max Strus' impact off the bench, and the importance of setting the tone in the playoffs.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 9:24pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the intense action of a basketball game, with the players' forms broken down into angular, colorful shapes that capture the energy and movement of the playoff contest.Donovan Mitchell's playoff dominance and the Cavaliers' team effort power their Game 1 victory over the Raptors.Cleveland Today

Donovan Mitchell scored 30+ points for the ninth consecutive Game 1, leading the Cavaliers to a 126-113 win over the Raptors in the opening game of their first-round playoff series. Mitchell discussed the team's solid overall performance, Max Strus' impressive contribution off the bench, and the importance of setting an aggressive tone in the playoffs.

Why it matters

The Cavaliers' Game 1 victory over the Raptors establishes them as a formidable force in the Eastern Conference playoffs. Donovan Mitchell's continued playoff dominance and the team's ability to get key contributions from role players like Max Strus bode well for their chances of making a deep postseason run.

The details

Mitchell scored 30+ points for the ninth consecutive Game 1, continuing his impressive playoff performances. The Cavaliers shot 55% from the field and did a good job limiting the Raptors' transition opportunities. Max Strus provided a big boost off the bench, scoring 24 points and showcasing his energy and shooting ability.

  • The Cavaliers defeated the Raptors 126-113 in Game 1 on Saturday, April 18, 2026.

The players

Donovan Mitchell

The Cavaliers' star guard who has scored 30+ points in nine consecutive Game 1s, setting an NBA record.

Max Strus

The Cavaliers' reserve guard who provided a crucial spark off the bench, scoring 24 points in the Game 1 win.

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What they’re saying

“When you see him, the work he's put in all season, it's for this moment, right? Like, this is a regular occurrence with Max. Maybe not 24, but just the level, right? The energy level, the boost. And it was so many different things, so many different ways.”

— Donovan Mitchell, Cavaliers Guard

“I'm just trying to set a tone of aggression. I know I said it to Kristen, I really like—you know, it just so happens that it is 30, right? But getting downhill, taking the open shots, taking what's given to me, and obviously making the defense have to react, you know what I'm saying?”

— Donovan Mitchell, Cavaliers Guard

What’s next

The Cavaliers and Raptors will face off in Game 2 of their first-round playoff series on Monday, April 20, 2026.

The takeaway

Donovan Mitchell's continued playoff dominance and the Cavaliers' ability to get key contributions from role players like Max Strus suggest the team is well-equipped to make a deep postseason run. The Cavaliers' strong defensive effort and efficient offense in Game 1 indicate they are a formidable opponent in the Eastern Conference playoffs.