What happened: The NBA announced a three-game slate to open the 2026-27 season on October 20. The Boston Celtics will visit the Detroit Pistons in the opening matchup at 3 p.m. ET. The Philadelphia 76ers face the New York Knicks at 7 p.m. ET, followed by the Oklahoma City Thunder playing the San Antonio Spurs at 9:30 p.m. ET.

Why it matters: The opening night schedule features marquee matchups across both conferences to begin the year. The broadcasts will be carried nationally by NBC and Peacock.

What to watch: The six franchises will complete their preseason schedules before the October 20 start date.