Raptors eye lineup tweaks and greater role for Ingram after lopsided Game 1 loss
raptors-look-for-adjustments-after-game-1-loss
The Toronto Raptors are weighing lineup changes and strategic adjustments following Saturday’s 126–113 defeat to the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 1 of their first-round series.
Toronto entered the postseason with the NBA’s fifth-best defensive rating and led the league in transition scoring, but managed only three fast-break points at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. “I feel like they were getting back,” forward Scottie Barnes said, noting Cleveland’s emphasis on halting transition opportunities. Guard RJ Barrett added that the Raptors must generate more stops to revive their running game.
Experience gap noted
Reporters covering the game highlighted Cleveland’s edge in experience and in-game adjustments. The Cavaliers pulled away early, and the final margin understated their control of the contest.
Rajakovic considering all options
Head coach Darko Rajakovic said on Sunday that “every scenario is on the table” ahead of Monday’s Game 2. He cited turnovers, defensive rebounding and overall defense as top priorities for improvement.
Boosting Ingram’s touches
Rajakovic also wants All-Star forward Brandon Ingram more involved offensively. Ingram scored 17 points in Game 1 but attempted only one shot after halftime. “We’ve got to involve Brandon much more in our offense and we have a plan to do so,” the coach said. Ingram responded that he intends to increase his aggression both on and off the ball.
Murray-Boyles playing through thumb issue
Rookie lottery pick Collin Murray-Boyles told Forbes contributor Mark Medina that a lingering left-thumb injury will likely bother him for the remainder of the 2025-26 season. The forward emphasized his focus on energy, defense and playmaking, saying, “I know the team needs me … I’m just trying to impact [the game].”
The Raptors and Cavaliers resume their best-of-seven series Monday night in Cleveland.
Source: Hoops Rumors
