Toronto Raptors: 5 Takeaways From Game 1 In Cleveland

Toronto Raptors: 5 Takeaways From Game 1 vs. Cavaliers

May 17, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Toronto Raptors forward Terrence Ross (31) and forward Luis Scola (4) watch from the bench during the fourth quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers in game one of the Eastern conference finals of the NBA Playoffs at Quicken Loans Arena. The Cavs won 115-84. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /

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May 17, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) drives against Toronto Raptors forward DeMarre Carroll (5) during the first quarter in game one of the Eastern conference finals of the NBA Playoffs at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Reconsider the defensive strategy on LeBron

The defensive game plan for the Toronto Raptors failed spectacularly in Game 1. The plan was to have DeMarre Carroll defend LeBron James straight up, allowing the entire team to play defense one-on-one.

James shot 11-of-13 on Tuesday night and followed up one of his two misses with a put-back basket.

The Raptors routinely lost James off the ball for open dunks and the physical style of game allowed James to manhandle the Raptors in the post.

If the refs are letting them play, Toronto will need to consider sending a second defender on him or trapping early to get the ball out of his hands.

Defending James is never an easy task, but the Raptors simply cannot allow him to establish post position so close to the basket and they certainly cannot allow uncontested shots at the rim. Twelve of James’ 13 shots came within three feet of the rim.

Allowing that kind of penetration is unacceptable and a colossal failure for the Raptors.

Next: Get to the free throw line