Cavs 2026 NBA Playoffs: First-Round Schedule Against Toronto Raptors

Bassyonni

Published: April 13, 2026 10:28 AM ET

The Cleveland Cavaliers are gearing up for the 2026 NBA Playoffs, opening their first-round series against the Toronto Raptors. As the fourth seed, Cleveland finished the regular season with a commendable record of 52 wins and 30 losses. The Raptors, securing the fifth seed, concluded the season with a record of 46 wins and 36 losses.

Cavs 2026 NBA Playoffs: First-Round Schedule Against Toronto Raptors

The first game of the series is scheduled for Saturday at 1 p.m. and will be broadcast on Amazon Prime. The series features a best-of-seven format, and the initial two games will take place at Rocket Arena in Cleveland. Following that, the teams will travel to Toronto for the remaining games.

Road to the Playoffs

Cleveland Cavaliers: 52-30
Toronto Raptors: 46-36

Interestingly, the Raptors secured their playoff spot by edging out the Atlanta Hawks through a head-to-head tiebreaker. While Toronto enjoyed a dominant win against the Brooklyn Nets, the Hawks opted to rest their starters and consequently fell to the Miami Heat.

Coaching Insights and Team Dynamics

Cavs coach Kenny Atkinson expressed respect for the Raptors, acknowledging their previous dominance in matchups throughout the season. The Cavaliers lost all three encounters with Toronto, suffering a total defeat margin of 35 points. However, the Cavs have made significant roster improvements with the additions of James Harden, Keon Ellis, and Dennis Schroder.

Since these acquisitions, Cleveland has posted an impressive record of 22 wins and 9 losses. The team concluded the regular season strongly, winning five of their last six games.

Expectations and Goals

Atkinson emphasized the team’s progression over the season. He believes that the trades have enhanced the Cavs’ competitiveness, positioning them for a strong playoff run. “We’re a better team than we were pre-trade,” he stated confidently. The front office’s efforts to secure vital roster enhancements have bolstered the team’s chances of building on past performances.

As the playoffs approach, anticipation builds for what promises to be an engaging matchup between the Cavaliers and Raptors, with both teams eager to prove their worth in the postseason.