The Toronto Raptors defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers in overtime on May 1, 2026, to force a decisive Game 7 [1, 2].
The victory prevents the Raptors from being eliminated from the NBA playoffs and shifts the momentum of the series back to a neutral state. By securing this win in Toronto, the Raptors have extended their postseason run and forced a winner-take-all finale [2].
RJ Barrett secured the victory with a game-winning jumper in the final 10 seconds of the overtime period [1]. This shot made Barrett only the third player in Raptors history to hit a playoff game-winner within that timeframe [1]. He joins Kawhi Leonard, who achieved the feat in 2019, and OG Anunoby, who did so in 2020 [1].
Scottie Barnes provided a significant offensive and playmaking presence throughout the contest. Barnes finished the game with 25 points and 14 assists [1]. His performance helped stabilize the Raptors' offense as they fought to keep the series alive against Cleveland.
The result leaves the series tied at 3-3 [2]. The Cavaliers had been positioned to close out the series, but the overtime loss forces them to play one more game to determine who advances in the bracket [2].
The game was played in Toronto, Canada, where the home crowd witnessed the dramatic conclusion [3]. The Raptors now prepare for the high-stakes environment of a Game 7, where the winner will move forward and the loser will be eliminated from the playoffs [2].
“RJ Barrett hit a game-winning jumper in the final 10 seconds of the overtime period.”
This result transforms a near-certain Cavaliers victory into a high-variance Game 7. By joining an elite group of Raptors players like Kawhi Leonard and OG Anunoby with a clutch shot, RJ Barrett has provided the team with a psychological boost and historical precedent for winning close playoff games in Toronto.
