The Toronto Raptors are looking to cut down on turnovers and get more scoring from Brandon Ingram on Thursday night in Game 3 of their Eastern Conference first-round playoff series against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Cleveland leads the best-of-seven series 2-0 following their 115-105 victory in Game 2 on Monday, where they secured a wire-to-wire win at home. The Cavaliers have now won 12 consecutive playoff games against the Raptors, tying the NBA postseason record for the longest winning streak against a single opponent.

Toronto struggled with turnovers in the first two games, committing 22 turnovers on Monday, leading to 44 points for the Cavaliers. Raptors head coach Darko Rajakovic admitted that turnovers were a major factor in the series deficit.

"I think it really came down to turnovers," Rajakovic said after the loss. "They really cost us."

One of the key players for Toronto, Brandon Ingram, has had an up-and-down performance so far in the playoffs. After scoring 17 points on 5-for-9 shooting in Game 1, Ingram was held to just seven points on 3-for-15 shooting in Game 2. Despite his struggles, Ingram remains confident heading into Game 3.

"I'm confident I won't miss all my shots and find a rhythm," Ingram said during practice on Wednesday. "It's tough when you feel like you're not doing your job. But I like to sit in disappointment for a little bit, see where I went wrong, and then get back into the fight."

Coach Rajakovic has shown full support for Ingram, encouraging him to stay aggressive and continue shooting.

"We need him to continue being aggressive in shooting," Rajakovic said. "I've got absolute support for him. He's going to make his shots."

On the defensive end, Cleveland forward Dean Wade has been instrumental. Although Wade scored just eight points in the first two games, he has been a key part of the Cavaliers' defense, especially in guarding Ingram. Wade, who is in his seventh season with the Cavaliers, takes pride in his role as a perimeter defender.

"Sometimes, it's a thankless job and I had to learn to love it," Wade said. "But, man, I love it. I really do."

For Toronto, center Jakob Poeltl has yet to make a significant impact, registering just two points and four rebounds in only 9:26 of action on Monday. Rajakovic emphasized that Poeltl needs to be more aggressive in Game 3.

"He needs to be part of the solution for us," Rajakovic said. "He needs to be more aggressive. He needs to dominate the glass. He's going to be a big part of Game 3, and I believe he's going to perform really well."

The Raptors also missed Immanuel Quickley in the first two games due to a strained right hamstring, but his condition is improving, and his status for Game 3 is still uncertain.

With Ingram struggling, Scottie Barnes stepped up for the Raptors in Game 2, leading the team with 26 points. RJ Barrett also contributed with 22 points, but it wasn't enough to overcome Cleveland’s offensive firepower.

On the Cavaliers’ side, Donovan Mitchell had a standout performance in Game 2, scoring 30 points. James Harden, who was acquired by Cleveland in a February trade, added 28 points, and Evan Mobley contributed 25 points. Harden’s addition has helped Mitchell, allowing him to conserve energy and remain fresh throughout the game.

"I mean, I can go stand on the wing," Mitchell said. "And like I always say, you have a guy that can create his own offense for himself and for others. ... it just makes it tough (to defend)."

Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson acknowledged that Harden's presence has been beneficial in managing Mitchell’s workload.

"That's part of it, right?" Atkinson said. "Keeping (Mitchell's) usage at a reasonable level. Donovan can get worn down. So again, these are reasons why you bring James Harden on board."

With the Raptors looking to avoid falling into a 3-0 series hole, Game 3 at home will be crucial as they look to make adjustments and bounce back.

-Field Level Media/Reuters