Toronto Raptors: 5 takeaways from 106-95 win in Cleveland
By Paul Taylor
![TORONTO, ON - OCTOBER 17: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the Toronto Raptors shoots the ball as Rodney Hood #1 and George Hill #3 of the Cleveland Cavaliers defend during the second half of the NBA season opener at Scotiabank Arena on October 17, 2018 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images) TORONTO, ON - OCTOBER 17: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the Toronto Raptors shoots the ball as Rodney Hood #1 and George Hill #3 of the Cleveland Cavaliers defend during the second half of the NBA season opener at Scotiabank Arena on October 17, 2018 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/1626d1a8ea0d07ae97620f086e9beeb08cdee139e04808a78e99afab27f9c682.jpg)
3) Kawhi Leonard continues to dominate
Leonard was coming off a season-high 37 points in a big win against the Golden State Warriors. And he was able to carry the momentum over to Saturday night.
The 27-year-old finished the evening with a game-high 34 points, to continue his excellent start to the 2018-19 campaign. It is also worth pointing out this is only the third time in his career he has scored 30+ points in consecutive games.
However, Leonard did more than just score in another dominating performance, also grabbing nine boards and dishing out two assists. In addition, he displayed his usual excellence at the defensive end of the court, highlighted by a couple of blocks and a steal.
There will still be understandable concerns about if the 2011 15th overall draft pick will be one-and-done in Toronto. However, with every passing game, the gamble is proving to be more worthwhile.
As things stand, Leonard is on course for a career-year. If he continues to produce anywhere close to his current rate, the Raptors have an excellent chance of reaching their first ever NBA Finals.