Philadelphia 76ers at Los Angeles Lakers
Friday, Dec. 25, 2026 at 5 p.m. | ESPN/ABC
You knew LeBron James was going to play on Christmas Day; now he’ll get to do it in his first game back in Los Angeles, against his former team and his son, Bronny James. By all accounts, James’ departure from the Lakers was cordial and respectful. Despite that, there will clearly be an appetite to stick it to his former squad. Similarly, Luka DonÄiÄ and the Lakers – now under new ownership – will want to show they’re better off.
Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) drives against Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) during a game in Denver on Mar 12, 2025.
Ron Chenoy, Imagn Images
Minnesota Timberwolves at Denver Nuggets
Monday, Dec. 28, 2026 at 10:30 p.m. | NBC/Peacock
These two squads have met in the playoffs in three of the past four postseasons, and the series have not disappointed. They’ve been physical and chirpy; as a reminder, in late April, Nuggets star Nikola Jokic took exception to Jaden McDaniels’ layup in the closing seconds of a blowout Minnesota victory and confronted him. More good news here is that these teams play four times this season.
Golden State Warriors vs. Philadelphia 76ers
Wednesday, March 24, 2027 at 10 p.m. (at Golden State) | ESPN
Wednesday, March 31, 2027 at 7 p.m. (at Philadelphia) | ESPN
This matchup may have lost some of its luster as both players have continued to age, but it’s another chance to see LeBron James and Stephen Curry compete.
Oklahoma City Thunder at San Antonio Spurs
Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026 at 9:30 p.m. | NBC/Peacock