LeBron Debuts with 76ers in Oct Opener vs Knicks

The 2026-27 season begins Oct 20 with LeBron James making his Philadelphia debut against the New York Knicks in a prime-time opener that is part of a triple-header including Celtics-Pistons and Thunder-Spurs. The Knicks are celebrated as reigning champions, and James’s move to the 76ers is framed as a bid to end Philadelphia’s title drought, with Jaylen Brown joining Philadelphia in a blockbuster swap that reshapes the Celtics. Ticket prices for the Knicks-76ers opener at Madison Square Garden are extremely steep, with cheapest seats near $2,000, underscoring the marquee nature. The season will also feature a Christmas rematch as the Knicks face Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs, with New York set to receive its Finals ring. Separately, the Cavaliers will begin Oct. 22 in Philadelphia against the 76ers, amid LeBron’s departure narrative and ongoing roster drama as Harden potentially returns.