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For very different reasons, the Knicks and 76ers dominated the headlines this NBA offseason. Now, as two of the Eastern Conference’s top contenders in 2026-27, they’ll face off on Opening Night in a game packed with storylines.

While New York will take one last moment to celebrate its 2025-26 championship by unveiling its title banner at Madison Square Garden, the most intriguing on-court part of Tuesday night’s matchup will be the new-look 76ers. For the fourth time in his career, LeBron James switched teams this offseason. Now, his first official game wearing red, white and blue has finally arrived.

James and Jaylen Brown will suit up alongside Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid and V.J. Edgecombe for the first time on Tuesday, with Philadelphia constructing a starting lineup that’s undoubtedly one of the NBA’s most talented ever, yet still faces massive logistical questions. And as they face a Knicks squad that blossomed into a deep, well-oiled machine last season, the 76ers won’t have the benefit of adjusting on the fly.

As Jalen Brunson, OG Anunoby and Karl-Anthony Towns begin their quest to go back-to-back in Game No. 1, the 76ers’ stars begin an unprecedented basketball experiment that Philadelphia is hopeful leads to a long-awaited title. 

The Sporting News is tracking live updates, highlights and more from James’ debut with the 76ers, facing the Knicks at Madison Square Garden on Opening Night for the 2026-27 season. Follow along with the action below.

MORE 76ERS-KNICKS NEWS:

Knicks vs. 76ers score

 

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LeBron James stats today

This section will be updated throughout 76ers vs. Knicks.

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Knicks vs. 76ers live updates, highlights from LeBron James’ Philly debut

All times ET.

7:32 p.m. — Philadelphia’s offense has led the way early, up 14-12. James has yet to score, but he’s help facilitate a hot start for Maxey and Embiid.

7:30 p.m. — Jalen Brunson is on the board.

7:25 p.m. — The Sixers’ two newcomers connect for Brown’s first bucket with the team:

7:24 p.m. — Karl-Anthony Towns has long faced foul troubles, and they’re already materializing tonight. He picks up a quick two fouls, including an offensive kick on a 3-point attempt.

7:20 p.m. — Quick start for Tyrese Maxey, who splashes in a 3-pointer on the 76ers’ first possession, then makes another on a fastbreak. He’s got the first six points of the game.

7:18 p.m. — Starters have been introduced, including James for the first time as a 76er. They’ve tipped off at MSG.

Pregame

7:05 p.m. — The ceremony is complete. LeBron James and Jaylen Brown are warming up for their 76ers debuts. It’s almost time for tip-off.

7:01 p.m. — One last moment for the Knicks to soak in the glory of a title before a new season begins.

6:53 p.m. — A look at the Knicks’ rings:

6:46 p.m. — Ben Stiller narrates a look back at the Knicks’ title, and the banner ceremony is underway.

6:37 p.m. — Josh Hart has the haircut of a champion.

6:36 p.m. — Dean Wade will not be available for the 76ers tonight, per Adam Aaronson.

6:35 p.m. — Your official new 76ers starting lineup:

6:32 p.m. —  What’s in store for Year 24?

5:47 p.m. — Knicks fans will be wearing shirts celebrating their title tonight:

5:45 p.m. — It’s almost time for Game No. 1 for the 76ers and Knicks.

5:44 p.m. — James has never won a debut with a new team. Does that change tonight?

5:42 p.m. — Welcome to Year 24. James has arrived at Madison Square Garden for his 76ers debut.

MORE NBA OPENING NIGHT:

Where to watch Knicks vs. 76ers

Knicks vs. 76ers start time 

  • Date: Tuesday, Oct. 20
  • Time: 7 p.m. ET

The Knicks and 76ers will begin their 2026-27 seasons at 7 p.m. ET on Tuesday, Oct. 20.

The game will be at Madison Square Garden, with New York unveiling its 2025-26 championship banner.

What channel is Knicks vs. 76ers on today?

Knicks vs. 76ers will be broadcast by NBC and will stream live on DIRECTV, which offers a free trial to new users.

Additional streaming options include Fubo, which also offers a free trial, and Peacock. 

76ers schedule 2026-27

Here are Philadelphia’s upcoming games:

Date Game Time (ET)
Thursday, Oct. 22 vs. Cavaliers 7 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 24 vs. Bucks 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, Oct. 25 vs. Pistons 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, Oct. 28 at Pacers 7 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 30 vs. Knicks 7:30 p.m.

Knicks schedule 2026-27

Here are New York’s upcoming games: 

Date Game Time (ET)
Friday, Oct. 23 at Celtics 7 p.m.
Sunday, Oct. 25 vs. Magic 7 p.m.
Tuesday, Oct. 27 vs. Pistons 8 p.m.
Wednesday, Oct. 28 at Bulls 8 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 30 at 76ers 7:30 p.m.

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