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Raptors extinct for 1 more year after sweep by LeBron and the Cavaliers

It was do-or-die for Toronto Sunday, who tried to best the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 4 of the NBA Eastern Conference semifinal — an uphill climb for the team trailing in series 3-0, made that much more difficult without the team's star guard.

Plenty of heart in 4th quarter couldn't save Raptors who lost 109-102 to reigning world champs

CBC News ·
Cleveland Cavaliers centre Tristan Thompson (13) fouls Toronto Raptors guard Cory Joseph (6) under the basket during second half NBA playoff basketball action in Toronto on Sunday, May 7, 2017. (Nathan Denette/CBC)

And just like that, the Raptors' playoff dreams are over.

It was do-or-die for Toronto Sunday, who tried to best the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 4 of the NBA Eastern Conference semifinal — an uphill climb for the team trailing in series 3-0, made that much more difficult without the team's star guard.

Kyle Lowry was on the sidelines again after previously missing Game 3 because of a sprained ankle.

There was a glimmer of hope after the first quarter, with the two teams tied 28-28.

But those hopes quickly began to fade as a slew of three-pointers by Cleveland left Toronto trailing the Cavaliers 61-49 at halftime.

Not for long. The Raptors clawed their way back in the third quarter narrowing Cleveland's lead to a five-point game.

The clawing continued with Fred VanVleet bringing Toronto within just one point of tying up the game in the fourth. 

And then finally, tipping the balance gaining a point over Cleveland by one precious point.

But in a heartbreaking twist, Cavalier Kyrie Irving turned the tide giving the game back to Cleveland with 11 straight points.

Some were not impressed. 

Others are keeping the faith for a better season the next time around. 

Most agree:

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