Cavs’ James Harden, RJ Barrett scuffle breaks out in Game 5 vs. Raptors

During a contentious and physical first-round playoff series, it’s apparent no love is being lost between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Toronto Raptors.

After a shoving match between James Harden and Scottie Barnes early in the third quarter, Harden and Barnes’ teammate, RJ Barrett, got into it later in Game 6 when a timeout was called. As Harden walked over the Raptors’ bench and grabbed the ball, which Barrett had lost control of moments earlier, Barrett grabbed at the ball, prompting Harden to pull the ball back and then push Barrett. They were quickly separated after that, with referees, players, coaches, and security personnel swarming them. No technical fouls were assessed as a result of the brouhaha, which came late in the fourth quarter.

James Harden and RJ Barrett getting into it

No technical fouls were given for this altercation. pic.twitter.com/yAvjf29O9p

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) April 30, 2026

Although Barrett led the way for his team with 25 points, 12 rebounds, and 5 assists, Harden and the Cavaliers got the last laugh. Behind 23-point performances by Harden and Evan Mobley, as well as 19 points in 21 minutes by Dennis Schroder, the Cavs took back control of the series with a 125-120 home win.

Cleveland now leads the series 3-2 as the teams head back to Toronto. So far, no road team has a won a game; the Cavaliers won by double digits in the first two games in Cleveland, while the Raptors dominated Game 3 and eked out a low-scoring Game 4 win in Toronto. The last two games in the series have been sepaarated by nine total points.

Game 6 will be played on Friday. Tipoff is TBD. If the Raptors win, Game 7 will be on Sunday in Cleveland.

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