Raptors Searching for Faster Pace, Defensive Stops After Game 1 Loss to Cavaliers
raptors-look-to-restore-identity-after-game-1-defeat
The Toronto Raptors were held to just three fast-break points and fell 126-113 to the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 1 of their first-round series on Saturday night at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.
Transition game shut down
Toronto led the NBA in transition scoring during the regular season, but Cleveland routinely hustled back on defense. “I feel like they were getting back,” forward Scottie Barnes said, noting the Cavaliers’ effort to stay compact and prevent runouts.
Defensive issues compound problems
Because the Raptors could not force turnovers, they struggled to string together stops in the half court. Cleveland built its cushion during a stretch that spanned the second and third quarters, shooting efficiently while Toronto chased the score. “We’ve got to get stops,” guard RJ Barrett said, adding that Cleveland’s defensive focus contributed to the outcome.
Rajaković weighing adjustments
Head coach Darko Rajaković said “every scenario is on the table” before Monday’s Game 2, citing turnovers, defensive rebounding and overall defense as areas requiring improvement. He also pointed to the need to feature Brandon Ingram more prominently on offense.
Ingram seeks larger role
The forward scored 17 points 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,” Rajaković said. Ingram agreed that he must be more aggressive with and without the ball.
Next up
Game 2 is scheduled for Monday night in Cleveland as Toronto aims to restore the uptempo, defensive identity that carried the club through the regular season.
Source: Hoops Wire
