A return to Canada helped the Toronto Raptors in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals. The Raptors played what was easily their best game all series, picking up a 99-84 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers Saturday night. It's the first Cavs' loss in the playoffs this year, although they still hold a 2-1 series lead.
After trailing for the entirety of both second halves in the first two games, the Raptors led all of the second half in Game 3. The Cavaliers hung around, but the Raptors led by as many as 18 and never gave it up.
DeMar DeRozan led the way for the Raptors. He had 32 points on 12 of 24 shooting and chipped in five boards and four assists. Kyle Lowry battled foul trouble early, but started the game hot after struggling in the first two games. He finished with 20 points, and was 4 of 7 from the 3-point line. Bismack Biyombo didn't make a shot from the field until the fourth quarter and had only seven points, but was a monster on the glass. He racked up a franchise playoff record 26 rebounds, including eight offensive boards. He also chipped in four blocks.
The Raptors finally got help from the supporting cast of the Dynamic Duo of Lowry and DeRozan. Three other players had at least 10 points, led by Cory Joseph's 14.
LeBron James played well, but the other two members of the Big 3 struggled. Kyrie Irving had 11 points, but added just one assist and was 3 of 19 from the field with three turnovers. Kevin Love had just 3 points, on 1 of 9 shooting.
James had 24 points, eight rebounds and five assists for the Cavs. J.R. Smith was the second-leading scorer with 22 points. He was 7 of 16 from the field, with all but one shot coming behind the 3-point line. Channing Frye added 11 points on 4 of 5 shooting. Five of the Cavs' nine rotation players had five points or less.
Game 4 of the series is Monday in Toronto. Tip-off is set for 8:30 p.m.
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