The Philadelphia 76ers are set to dominate the NBA's opening week with two marquee games. On October 20, the Sixers will visit the New York Knicks on NBA's opening night, with the game airing at 7 pm ET on NBC/Peacock. This matchup is particularly interesting, as the Knicks aim to prove that they can fend off the NBA's new super team, the Sixers.
What happened last time the 76ers faced the Knicks?
The last result was a blowout, with the New York Knicks defeating the Philadelphia 76ers 114-144 on May 10, 2026.
Why it matters for Philadelphia 76ers
The Sixers have formed a 'Super team' this offseason by acquiring Jaylen Brown, signing LeBron James, and pairing them together with Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. This new roster has raised questions about how long it will take for the team to figure out ball-handling duties among Maxey, Brown, and James. Additionally, there is concern about whether James and Embiid can stay healthy.
What comes next?
On Christmas Day, the Sixers will visit the Los Angeles Lakers at 5 pm ET on ABC/ESPN. This matchup is more interesting than the Sixers-Celtics reunion, as the NBA's defending champions, the Knicks, want to prove that they can fend off the NBA's new super team, the Sixers. The Sixers will have a healthy roster to show the Knicks what their potential can be, despite not having established chemistry by opening night.
Thunder-Spurs rivalry
The Oklahoma City Thunder and the San Antonio Spurs have a long-standing rivalry, with the Spurs holding a 2-1 lead in their last three meetings. These two teams do not like each other, and their game on October 20 at 9:30 pm ET on NBA/Peacock is expected to be intense.
The Philadelphia 76ers are looking to make a statement in the NBA's opening week, and their marquee games against the New York Knicks and the Los Angeles Lakers will be a great opportunity to showcase their new 'Super team'. With a healthy roster and a new dynamic, the Sixers are ready to take on the best teams in the league.
