Darius Garland erupted for a season-high 40 points to lead the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 132-126 victory over the Toronto Raptors on Thursday night. With the win, Cleveland extended their win streak to 12 games and improved their league-best record to 33-4.
Garland, who shot 14-of-22 from the field and 8-of-9 from the free-throw line, also dished out nine assists to power the Cavaliers’ offense. Jarrett Allen contributed 18 points and 15 rebounds, while Evan Mobley added 21 points, 11 rebounds, and six assists in another dominant showing for Cleveland’s frontcourt.
The Cavaliers maintained their perfect form at home, where they are now 20-1, and tied the fifth-best record in NBA history through 37 games.
The Raptors, despite holding a 93-81 lead midway through the third quarter, faltered in the final period as Cleveland outscored them 34-23. Toronto’s Scottie Barnes recorded 24 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists, while Chris Boucher came off the bench to score 23 points and grab 12 rebounds.
Toronto guard Jamal Shead made all three of his three-point attempts and finished with 15 points in limited action. However, the Raptors struggled defensively down the stretch, allowing Cleveland to capitalize.
Cleveland’s dynamic duo of Allen and Mobley combined to shoot 15-of-20 from the field, making a strong case for both to earn All-Star selections. The pair dominated the paint and provided the necessary support on a night when Donovan Mitchell was rested.
The Cavaliers’ balanced attack featured five players scoring in double figures, including Max Strus, who added 12 points off the bench while knocking down four three-pointers. Cleveland shot 52.8% from the field and 40% from deep, while their defense forced the Raptors into 12 turnovers.
For Toronto, Scottie Barnes continued to demonstrate his all-around ability, but the team’s overall struggles left them with their 15th loss in 16 games. Despite efficient shooting—59.6% from the field and 45.2% from beyond the arc—the Raptors couldn’t match Cleveland’s composure in crunch time.
