Atkinson believes that reducing turnovers was the key factor in defeating the Raptors again.

Thanks to contributions from Donovan Mitchell, James Harden, and Evan Mobley, the Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Toronto Raptors 115-105 in the second round of the 2025/26 NBA playoffs , securing their second consecutive win. Kenny Atkinson stated that the team reduced turnovers in the second half and made timely adjustments when their offensive rhythm was disrupted.

According to the data, Donovan Mitchell scored 30 points and 5 assists in this key game, James Harden scored 28 points and 4 assists, while Evan Mobley contributed 25 points and 2 assists for the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson said, "Our opponents kept attacking us, using every method imaginable. They gave us a lot of different defensive variations, at one point narrowing the gap to 6 or even 5 points, but we remained calm on both ends of the court. Donovan Mitchell and James Harden finished the game very well for us, and I think our defense also forced them to switch to a small lineup and have to bring out more shooters."

"This was a game for superstars. Donovan Mitchell, James Harden, and Evan Mobley led us to hit the key shots. James Harden had four steals in the second half and was outstanding on the defensive end. Evan Mobley was also very crucial on defense."

Atkinson noted, "James Harden had four steals, which was more a result of reading the game and being in the right positions, and we also dealt with their pressure better in the second half. We reduced our turnovers in the second half, which I think was key. Our offensive rhythm was disrupted at times, but we corrected it in time."

“We need Jalen Tyson to be aggressive and do his job. It’s part of the development process for a young player, and this is his first real playoff experience. Also, the opponents have been double-teaming Donovan Mitchell a lot. Those aren’t easy shots; they’re long-range shots in tight spaces. That’s the playoffs.”

In addition, the Cleveland Cavaliers will travel to Toronto to face the Raptors in the next round of the playoffs.

Atkinson stated, "We didn't want to go back to Cleveland with a 2-2 score. It was very important for us to take a 3-0 lead. Our opponents tried to wear us down, but we weren't affected, which was a good test of our physical strength."

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