3 things to watch in Cavaliers-Raptors Game 5

Key Points:

• The Eastern Conference first-round series between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Toronto Raptors is tied 2-2, with momentum swinging back and forth, making Game 5 crucial as it returns to Cleveland.
• The Raptors have adjusted by focusing defensive pressure on Cavaliers stars Donovan Mitchell and James Harden, forcing other Cleveland players to step up, but so far, the supporting cast has struggled to produce consistently.
• Three-point shooting could be decisive in Game 5, with the Cavaliers relying on shooters like Max Strus, Harden, and Sam Merrill to improve their 34% series average, while the Raptors lack strong perimeter shooting options due to injuries.
• Toronto's young players Jamal Shead and Collin Murray-Boyles have emerged as key contributors through defensive intensity and offensive rebounding, providing energy and second-chance scoring opportunities that challenge Cleveland's more experienced frontcourt.
• The Cavaliers must reduce turnovers, particularly from Harden, and hope for increased contributions from role players to counter the Raptors' resilience and maintain their home-court advantage in the pivotal game.