Cleveland Cavaliers 3-2 series lead Orlando Magic thrilling 104-103 victory Game 5

Cavs edge Magic in thrilling Game 5, take 3-2 series lead as Mitchell shines despite injury scare. Excitement builds for Game 6.

The Cleveland Cavaliers managed to secure a hard-fought 104-103 victory over the Orlando Magic in Game 5, taking a 3-2 series lead in the process. The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both teams trading leads throughout the fourth quarter in a nail-biting finish.

Before the game even began, the Cavaliers faced adversity with the news that center Jarrett Allen would be sidelined due to a rib injury. Despite this setback, point guard Darius Garland stepped up in a big way, scoring 17 points in the first quarter to energize the crowd at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.

The Cavaliers started strong, building a 10-point lead by the end of the first quarter. However, their offense stalled in the second quarter, allowing the Magic to close the gap and trail by just one point at halftime.

Max Strus, who had been quiet in the playoffs, came alive in the third quarter with 11 points to help the Cavaliers maintain their lead. Donovan Mitchell, dealing with a nagging knee injury, also made key plays on both ends of the court.

As the game entered the final period, the intensity ramped up as both teams fought for control. The lead changed hands multiple times, with Marcus Morris and Donovan Mitchell leading the charge for the Cavaliers.

In the closing minutes of the game, Evan Mobley and Garland made crucial plays to extend the Cavaliers' lead. Despite a late surge from the Magic, the Cavaliers' defense held firm to secure the narrow victory.

With the series now shifting back to Orlando, the Cavaliers will look to carry the momentum from this thrilling win and close out the series in Game 6. The resilience and determination shown by the team in Game 5 bode well for their chances moving forward.

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