What happened: Prime's NBA package resumes Oct. 23 with Knicks-Celtics in the opener and Rockets-Spurs in the second game. San Antonio's matchup with Houston is slated for Austin rather than the Spurs' usual home floor.

Why it matters: The opener gives Boston its first major national stage since its offseason roster split and puts New York into an immediate test against an East contender. It also cements Prime's Oct. 23 opening-night doubleheader as one of the first showcase windows of the 2026-27 season.

What to watch: Watch for tipoff times and the full opening-week broadcast grid as Oct. 23 approaches. Training camp developments in Boston, New York, Houston and San Antonio should sharpen the stakes before the opener.