Cavs back in NBA Finals after seeing off Raptors

The Cleveland Cavaliers’ quest for a maiden NBA championship remains on track after eclipsing the Toronto Raptors for an NBA Finals berth.

Leading 3-2 in the best-of-seven play-off series, the Cavs sealed their spot in the NBA Finals for a second consecutive season thanks to Friday’s 113-87 away win in game six.

In a topsy-turvy matchup, the Cavs – who lost to the Golden State Warriors in last season’s final – had opened with back-to-back wins, only to drop consecutive games against the Raptors.

The Cavs, however, regained the ascendency with a 116-78 blowout victory in game five on Wednesday.

And the Cavs closed out the series in convincing fashion on the road two days later, for a third conference title.

Cleveland’s big three led the way yet again in Toronto.

LeBron James posted 33 points and 11 rebounds, Kevin Love also had a double-double via 20 points and 12 rebounds, while Kyrie Irving had 30 points.

Despite being urged on by their supporters in Canada, the Raptors were unable to force a deciding game seven, even with 35 points from Kyle Lowry.

DeMar DeRozan chipped in with 20 points in the loss.

Awaiting the Cavaliers in the NBA Finals, starting June 2, will be either the Warriors or Oklahoma City Thunder.