Toronto Raptors beat Cleveland Cavaliers 115-109
The Raptors went into Cleveland, Ohio Thursday night looking to beat the Cavs for the third time this season.
In the first game of a two day, two game road trip, the Raptors were able to pull out the win against a young Cavs team.
With the win Toronto extended their eight game win streak to nine.
The Raptors controlled the game most of the way, but were in tough as the Cavaliers made a 4th quarter push.
Cleveland out scored Toronto by 5 in the quarter, bring the game to just a single possession down the stretch.
The Raptors were dominated on the glass in the game, being out rebounded by the Cavs 52-37
Giving up 15 offensive rebounds to the young Cavaliers. Mostly to Tristan Thompson who finished with 12 rebounds.
Toronto’s saving grace was once again its defence. Forcing the Cavs into 21 turnovers in the game, while holding the Cavs to just 109 points.
The Raptors were able to total 13 steals in the game, scoring 25 points off of turnovers in the contest.
Serge Ibaka and Kyle Lowry led the way for Toronto scoring 26 and 23 points a piece, while Fred VanFleet added 8 points 12 assists and 7 rebounds.
It was an especially good night for Kyle Lowry, as he was named a NBA All-star for the 6th time in his career.
Toronto who was shorthanded once again due to injuries was able to get another solid performance from its bench.
The Raptors bench scored 30 points tonight, with Norman Powell leading the way.
Powell had another strong performance off the bench tonight scoring 16 points while adding 5 rebounds.
Leading scorers for Cleveland were Kevin Love and Colin Sexton who both dropped 23 points each.
Toronto will now head to Detroit Michigan where they will take on the Pistons Friday night.
Tip off is 7:00pm EST.
