RJ Barrett emphasized consistency, effort, and rebounding issues after the Toronto Raptors were eliminated by the Cleveland Cavaliers in a 114-102 Game 7 defeat on Sunday night at Rocket Arena in Cleveland, Ohio.
Barrett, who scored 23 points, pointed to Toronto’s identity throughout the series, saying, “I think that’s how hard we play.” He also referenced the team’s limited playoff experience and roster challenges.
“Being down one starter, being down two starters, guys just came in and gave it their all,” Barrett said. “We’ve always had a next man up mentality.”
Cleveland used a decisive second-half stretch, turning a nine-point deficit into a 19-point lead during a 49-21 run across the second and third quarters. Barrett linked the swing to physical execution.
“I think they got way too many rebounds, but regardless, I’m proud of this group,” he said. “Also, they got 19 rebounds, that’s tough.”
The Cavaliers controlled the glass during the key stretch, including 10 offensive rebounds that produced 14 points. Jarrett Allen finished with 22 points and 19 rebounds, setting the tone inside.
Barrett acknowledged how Cleveland’s individual performances shaped the outcome. “In these games like tonight, it was Allen’s night,” he said, also noting early impact from Cleveland’s perimeter players across the series.
Toronto led for most of the first half but struggled during the third quarter when Cleveland opened with nine straight points. Barrett highlighted the importance of experience in that phase of the game.
“They have guys that have been in Game 7s before over there,” he said. “That’s a good learning experience for us.”
Despite the loss, Barrett stressed the team’s long-term direction. “This loss hurts, but I think it also shows the rest of the league what it is we’re building here,” he said. “When you see the Toronto Raptors, you’re going to have a dog fight.”
Barrett also addressed his own approach in the series, focusing on aggression and playmaking responsibilities. “I’ve been doing this my whole life,” he said. “I’m going to continue to be consistent.”
He added that his role required constant pressure on the rim. “Every time I stepped on the floor, I was just trying to be as aggressive as I can,” Barrett said. “That aggressiveness going to the rim opened up everything.”
On teammate Scottie Barnes, Barrett praised his impact and development during the series. “I think he kind of shut up a lot of talk,” he said. “That’s a winning player.”
Barnes finished with 24 points and nine rebounds in the loss, while Barrett and Barnes combined for 47 points as Toronto struggled to overcome Cleveland’s rebounding edge and third-quarter surge.
Barrett also credited head coach Darko Rajakovic for in-series adjustments. “I think he and his staff did a great job of putting us in the best position,” he said.
Looking ahead, Barrett made it clear the focus shifts to improvement. “We’re going to continue to go back to work in the summer and come back strong,” he said. “We know the things that we have to work on.”
Toronto finishes its playoff return after missing the postseason in 2023 and 2024, while Cleveland advances to face Detroit in the Eastern Conference semifinals.
