Dean Wade returned to the starting lineup for the Cleveland Cavaliers in a pivotal Game 7 against the Toronto Raptors on May 3, 2026. His presence helped secure a 114-102 victory, allowing the Cavs to advance in the NBA playoffs.
The Cavaliers faced a win-or-go-home scenario after losing Game 6. Wade had previously come off the bench in the last two games before this crucial matchup.
Wade’s performance statistics:
- Averaged 5.0 points per game over four starts in this series
- Recorded 4.5 rebounds and 1.3 steals per game
- Played approximately 25 minutes per game
In Game 7, Cleveland outscored Toronto 38-19 in the third quarter, with Jarrett Allen contributing significantly with 14 points and 10 rebounds during that stretch. Despite falling behind by ten points twice in the second quarter, the Cavaliers rallied back.
Max Strus, who started instead of Wade in Games 5 and 6, had Cleveland’s best plus-minus rating of plus-20 in Game 7. His contributions were vital, but Wade’s return proved decisive.
The Cavaliers will now face the No. 1 seed Detroit Pistons in the second round. Game 1 is scheduled for May 5 in Detroit.
