Toronto Raptors forward Brandon Ingram has doubled down on his confidence despite a difficult start to the playoffs, as his team prepares for a must-win Game 3 against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Ingram has endured a frustrating opening two games of the first-round series, averaging just 12.0 points on 33.3% shooting. With the Raptors already trailing 0-2, pressure is mounting on the star forward to deliver a turnaround performance.
Ingram remains defiant despite poor shooting form
Speaking after practice ahead of Game 3, Ingram addressed his recent struggles but insisted he is far from losing belief in his shot or his role as Toronto’s primary scorer.
“I’m confident I won’t miss all my shots and find a rhythm,” Ingram said. “But I’m also confident in our team. I don’t want to sit here and make this all about me.”
The comments reflect both accountability and reassurance, as Ingram attempts to balance personal responsibility with team-first messaging at a critical stage of the series.
During the regular season, Ingram was a consistent offensive leader for Toronto, averaging 21.5 points per game on nearly 48% shooting. However, that efficiency has dropped sharply under playoff intensity.
Raptors need their star to respond
With the Raptors now facing a 0-2 deficit, Game 3 at Scotiabank Arena becomes a pivotal moment in the series. A loss would push Toronto to the brink of elimination, while a win would restore belief heading into Game 4.
The Cavaliers have controlled key stretches of the matchup so far, putting Toronto in a position where their supporting cast alone may not be enough.
Ingram’s ability to rediscover his scoring form could ultimately decide whether this series becomes competitive or slips away quickly.
Support remains within the locker room
Despite his struggles and recent public comments about offensive involvement, Ingram continues to receive strong backing from teammates.
RJ Barrett emphasised the importance of keeping confidence within the group, urging Ingram to stay engaged and trust his ability.
“He’s got us here all season,” Barrett said. “When I have my off nights, he’s right there to pick me up.”
Head coach Darko Rajaković has also shown support, pointing to external factors and officiating challenges impacting Ingram’s rhythm when attacking the basket.
High stakes heading into Game 3
The Raptors now return home knowing the series could swing dramatically depending on the outcome of Game 3. Playoff experience has been limited for much of the roster in recent years, adding further pressure to respond in front of a home crowd.
For Ingram, the spotlight will be intense. The expectation is not just efficiency, but leadership — something Toronto desperately needs if they are to avoid falling into a near-unrecoverable 0-3 hole.
As the series shifts to Scotiabank Arena, all eyes will be on whether Ingram’s confidence translates into production when it matters most.
