Toronto Raptors' forwards Chris Bosh and Andrea Bargnani guard Cleveland Cavaliers' forward Shaquille O'Neal. Photograph: Mike Cassese/Reuters

The Cleveland Cavaliers slumped to akoya pearl bracelet  their second defeat in as many games to start the new season as the Toronto Raptors held them at bay for a 101-91 victory.

Expectations in Cleveland have been inflated following the pre-season acquisition of Shaquille O'Neal from Phoenix but last year's beaten Eastern Conference finalists have so far failed to find fluency with the 37-year-old in the team.

The Cavs lost 95-89 to the Boston Celtics on the cultured freshwater pearl  opening night yesterday and their second defeat was inflicted despite LeBron James posting the 25th triple-double of his career (21 points, 11 rebounds, 12 assists). Andrea Bargnani led the Raptors with 28 points while Chris Bosh added 21 points and 16 boards.

The Celtics added to their opening-night win with a typically strong defensive display to dominate the Charlotte Bobcats 92-59 in wholesale pearl jewelry  their home opener. Ray Allen led five Celtic scorers in double figures with 18 points.