Cavs Backcourt Duo Dominates in Game 1 Win Over Raptors

Mitchell and Harden combine for 65 points as Cavaliers take series opener

Apr. 19, 2026 at 8:54pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the dynamic action of an NBA playoff basketball game, with overlapping planes of wine, gold, red, and black colors representing the Cavaliers and Raptors players in motion.The Cavaliers' star backcourt duo of Donovan Mitchell and James Harden overwhelmed the Raptors in Game 1, setting the tone for what could be a deep playoff run.Cleveland Today

The Cleveland Cavaliers' starting backcourt of Donovan Mitchell and James Harden delivered a dominant performance in Game 1 of their Eastern Conference first-round playoff series against the Toronto Raptors. The duo combined for 65 points to lead the Cavaliers to a victory in the series opener.

Why it matters

The Cavaliers are looking to make a deep playoff run this season, and the strong showing from their star backcourt in Game 1 is an encouraging sign. Mitchell and Harden have formed a formidable partnership in Cleveland's lineup, and their ability to take over games will be crucial as the Cavaliers aim to advance in the postseason.

The details

Donovan Mitchell scored a game-high 35 points, while James Harden added 30 points to go along with 9 assists. The two guards were efficient from the field, shooting a combined 21-for-39 (53.8%) and making 8 three-pointers. Their scoring outburst helped the Cavaliers overcome a slow start and pull away in the second half for a comfortable victory.

  • The Cavaliers and Raptors tipped off Game 1 of their first-round playoff series on April 16, 2026.
  • Game 2 of the series is scheduled for April 19, 2026.

The players

Donovan Mitchell

A 26-year-old All-Star guard in his fifth NBA season, Mitchell was acquired by the Cavaliers in a trade prior to the 2025-26 campaign.

James Harden

A 37-year-old future Hall of Famer, Harden joined the Cavaliers as a free agent in the 2024 offseason and has formed a dynamic backcourt duo with Donovan Mitchell.

Toronto Raptors

The Raptors are the Cavaliers' opponent in the first round of the 2026 NBA playoffs, making their sixth consecutive postseason appearance.

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What they’re saying

“Donovan and James were incredible tonight. When those two are clicking like that, we're a tough team to beat.”

— J.B. Bickerstaff, Cavaliers Head Coach

“We knew they were going to come out aggressive, and we just couldn't match their intensity. We'll need to make some adjustments for Game 2.”

— Fred VanVleet, Raptors Guard

What’s next

Game 2 of the Cavaliers-Raptors series is scheduled for April 19, 2026 in Toronto. The Raptors will look to even the series at 1-1 before the action shifts back to Cleveland.

The takeaway

The Cavaliers' star backcourt of Donovan Mitchell and James Harden set the tone in Game 1, showcasing their scoring prowess and ability to take over a playoff game. If they can maintain this level of production, the Cavaliers will be a tough out for any opponent in the Eastern Conference playoffs.