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RJ Barrett’s fortuitous winning shot with 1.2 seconds left in Friday’s overtime reminded Toronto basketball fans of similar glory days in the NBA playoffs.
Barrett’s three-pointer from the top of the key hit off the back rim and bounced high above the backboard before going through the net to give the Raptors a 112-110 victory and force tonight’s Game 7 in the opening-round series at Rocket Arena in Ohio.
For many fans, Barrett’s clutch shot brought back memories of Kawhi Leonard’s four-bounce buzzer-beating winner in Game 7 of the 2019 East semifinals against Philadelphia. The Raptors would go on to win the NBA championship.
Barrett and his teammates said Friday’s victory was thrilling but noted the focus quickly shifted to tonight’s win or go home showdown.
“Got one game to decide it all,” Barrett said. “We’ve fought through the toughest of tasks all year long. So going to Cleveland is going to be a tough task, but that’s what we’re built for.”
WATCH | RJ Barrett shares his thoughts on last game’s winning three-point shot:
‘If it goes straight up, you got a chance’: RJ Barrett on stunning basket clinching overtime win
Mississauga, Ont., native RJ Barrett scored the game-winning basket in Friday’s overtime win for the Toronto Raptors. The 112-110 win forces a Game 7 in the playoff series against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Forgotten in all the Game 6 excitement was the Raptors being outscored 23-12 in the final quarter and coming oh-so close to being ousted.
The physical Raptors are trying to become the first team since Dallas in the 2022 Western Conference semifinals to win a Game 7 on the road after the first six were won by the home team.
The experienced and battle-tested Cavaliers are looking to advance past the first round for the third straight year. They are 6-2 in Game 7s, including 4-0 at home. Toronto is 3-3 in Game 7s and is playing its first one on the road since the 2021 conference semifinals against Philadelphia, which it lost 88-87.
Both offences are averaging 111.5 points per game, the Raptors have shot slightly better (40.7 per cent to 39.8 per cent) and Toronto’s defence has had a slightly better rating than the Cavaliers.
Toronto forward Brandon Ingram remains questionable for tonight after missing Friday’s game because of right heel inflammation.
