Cavs explode in 3rd to bury Raptors, set up Pistons showdown

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Cavs explode in 3rd to bury Raptors, set up Pistons showdown image

Photo by Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images

By Rafael Bandayrel

The Cleveland Cavaliers advanced to the second round of the Eastern Conference Playoffs after defeating the Toronto Raptors, 114-102, in Game 7 on Monday (PH time) in Cleveland.

After a tight first half that ended in a 49-all deadlock, the Cavaliers broke the game open in the third quarter, erupting for a commanding 87-68 lead heading into the final period.

That dominant stretch proved to be the difference, as Toronto struggled to mount a serious comeback. The Raptors briefly trimmed the deficit to 12, but James Harden responded by drawing a three-shot foul on Ja'Kobe Walter to halt the momentum.

Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images

Donovan Mitchell later added the finishing touches with a late layup to push the lead back to 16 and seal the victory.

Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images

Jarrett Allen delivered a monster performance with 22 points and 19 rebounds, while Mitchell also scored 22. Harden chipped in 18 points.

Photo by Cole Burston/Getty Images

With the win, Cleveland moves on to face the top-seeded Detroit Pistons, who also advanced after winning their Game 7 matchup against the Orlando Magic.

Game 1 between the Cavaliers and Pistons is set for Wednesday in Detroit.

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