3 things the Cavaliers have going for them against the Raptors

The Toronto Raptors swept the Cleveland Cavaliers early in the 2025-26 season, but the oddsmakers have the Cavs taking their upcoming playoff series against the Raptors in a fairly easy run of games. Going into the playoffs, the Cavaliers have a lot going for them, but let's boil it down to three things. The Cavaliers that will play in the playoffs are very different from the team that Toronto swept before Turkey Day. Months have passed, and the Cavs have changed their approach and lineup. They have a newfound chemistry, thanks to the additions of James Harden, Dennis Schröder and Keon Ellis in February. Numbers Are on Their Side During the latter part of the season, the time that counts, the Cavs have shot 36 percent from deep and averaged 28 assists, according to NBA research. That average is over the past 30 games since adding Harden, Schroder and Ellis, so it shows consistency among these new players. The wins show it, too. Over their last 37 games before the playoffs, the Cavaliers went 27-10, which is why they're such favorites this weekend. Meanwhile, Toronto peaked too early. They lost four of their first five games, but then they got on a hot winning streak, winning 13 of their next 14 games, including the Cavaliers matchups. But then the losses started piling up, and they closed the season with a 14-13 record following the All-Star Break. If Destiny Means Anything, the Cavs Will Win the Series The Cavs also just seemed destined to go for this season. Sure, that's not a real tangible plus, but it's still a positive. This team is motivated and hungry for a win. More sports news: Chris Paul Gets Last Laugh After Clippers’ Collapse vs. Warriors in Play-In "This is what we signed up for," head coach Kenny Atkinson said before the series, regarding the pressure to win. "There's pressure in this job – pressure on coaches, pressure on players. I've always been so locked in on the process, and kind of doubling down on that, and I believe the results take care of themselves." He added, "When the game comes and the crowd gets going, sure there's pressure. But that's also what you welcome. Pressure is exciting. When you're at this level and competing at this level and competing against top teams in the league, it excites you."