Cavaliers and Nuggets Open NBA Playoffs with Wins

The NBA Playoffs tipped off this Saturday, with the Eastern Conference first round seeing the Cleveland Cavaliers secure a 126-113 victory over the Toronto Raptors. Meanwhile, the Denver Nuggets defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves by 116-105.

The opening game of the 2025/26 playoffs pitted the Cavaliers against the Raptors. Cleveland largely dominated the contest, leading in the first three quarters (35-31, 26-23, and 36-22) and only trailing Toronto in the final period (29-37). For the home team, Donovan Mitchell shone with 32 points, 3 rebounds, and 4 assists, while James Harden contributed 22 points and 10 assists. RJ Barrett led the visitors with 24 points, followed by Scottie Barnes with 21.

The clash between the Nuggets and the Timberwolves proved to be a much tighter affair. After heading into halftime tied at 62 points apiece (23-33 and 39-29 in the first two quarters), Denver established a 12-point lead by the end of the third period. The visitors then cut the deficit to just two points with a 16-6 run, which was ultimately broken by Nikola Jokic. The three-time MVP was the standout performer, recording yet another triple-double with 25 points, 13 rebounds, and 11 assists. Jamal Murray added 30 points and 7 assists for the winning side, while Anthony Edwards did his best to prevent the visitors' loss, tallying 22 points, 9 rebounds, and 7 assists.

Games 2 of both series, which will be held at the same venues as tonight's matchups, are scheduled for Monday night into Tuesday morning.