Player Grades: Cavs vs Raptors Game 7 – Role players get the job done
The Cavs had multiple players help them get across the finish line.
TORONTO, CANADA - MAY 1: Jaylon Tyson #20 of the Cleveland Cavaliers CLECAV looks on against the Toronto Raptors during Game Six of the First Round of the NBA Eastern Conference Playoffs at Scotiabank Arena on May 1, 2026 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Cole Burston/Getty Images) | Getty Images The Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Raptors 4-3 to advance to the second round of the NBA Playoffs.
All grades are based on our usual expectations for each player. Donovan Mitchell 22 points, 1 assist, 3 rebounds, 2 turnovers This wasn’t a great game from Mitchell, per se. We’ve seen him play much better than this.
But compared to his recent performances, this felt huge. Mitchell fit in more than he fit out, despite starting the game 6-16 from the floor. The Cavs better utilized the space around him, cutting into the lane and pounding the offensive glass.
If you can’t get Mitchell free, you can at least use the defensive attention he receives to your advantage elsewhere. The Cavs did that, and Mitchell leaned further into it than in the games before. Grade: C+ James Harden 18 points, 3 assists, 6 rebounds, 3 steals, 2 turnovers Harden took care of the ball for his fewest turnovers in a game this series.
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