You can make a reasonable case that Game 4 between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Toronto Raptors was on its way to being the biggest stinker of the 2026 playoffs so far. But then it was saved by a late-game surge by both teams, resulting in several clutch buckets and an intensity level that could rival the actual Finals.
Twelve lead changes and six clutch free throws by Scottie Barnes closed it out, with Toronto winning 93-89 and evening the series at 2-2. The series moves back to Cleveland for Game 5 on Tuesday.
Let’s break down a few takeaways from Game 4.
There was no question that the 6-foot-7 rookie was NBA ready from Day 1. He has been active on both sides of the floor, has ridiculous defensive upside, and has seemingly found his playoff feet much quicker than anticipated.
Murray netted 15 points and 10 rebounds off the bench in Game 4, and was a constant threat on the interior, scoring against the entire Cavs front line, despite being several inches shorter than both Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley.
His performance in this series underlines his potential, which is vast, and can yet be molded in many different ways. However you slice it, the Raptors got a good one.
James Harden’s turnover issues
Entering Game 4, the former MVP was averaging 5.7 turnovers per game this series. Somehow he managed to increase that average.
Harden, who had seven turnovers in Game 4, has historically had an issue hanging on to the ball. In the playoffs, that issue is all the more difficult to overcome, especially the further you manage to go.
What’s curious about his mishaps in this series is that a fair bunch of them were entirely preventable. It’s lazy entry passes, forced outlets, and a general lack of focus.
It ponders the question of whether or not Donovan Mitchell should take over more ball-handling duties until Harden has adjusted himself.
The Raptors have a point guard problem
With Immanuel Quickley unavailable, the Raptors have tried out both Jamal Shead and Ja’Kobe Walter at lead guard. While both have applied themselves in some manner, neither has succeeded in stringing together periods where things have clicked.
Poor shooting efficiency, in particular, has plagued both. And while Shead is simply a better playmaker than Walter, he is short in stature and gives up size defensively. (Walter, a strong, physical defender, went 0-for-9 from the field in Game 4.)
It’s not a problem the Raptors can fix right now, so they’re going to have to make due. But if they proceed to the second round, they’re going to have to think up an alternative game plan.
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