NBA Basketball 24-Hour Briefing

Last updated: October 21, 2026, 11:10 PM ET

Season Openers and Opening Night Results

The 2026-27 NBA season kicked off with a tripleheader, and the full results and highlights tell the story of a wild night. The Pistons staged the largest comeback ever on the first day of a season, erasing a 22-point deficit against Boston. Paul George scored 38 points in his Celtics debut, the most by a Boston player in his first game, but it came in a loss he refused to dress up as a moral win.

Knicks and 76ers

The Knicks raised their championship banner before tipping off against Philadelphia, adding a surprise Cup banner to the celebration. Philadelphia rallied in LeBron James' debut, with James posting 14 points, nine rebounds and seven assists while helping limit Karl-Anthony Towns. Joel Embiid was dominant in the win with three blocks, while Knicks coach Mike Brown admitted the result was playing with fire given how his team performed.

Spurs, Thunder and Western Storylines

Victor Wembanyama struggled badly, failing to make a basket until late in the third quarter in a career-worst shooting night. Oklahoma City closed ranks around Chet Holmgren after a scuffle in the second quarter of their opener, a moment that underscored a redemptive start to the campaign.

Lakers and Luka Dončić

Luka Dončić took out a full-page advertisement in the Los Angeles Times declaring the Lakers' title run starts now and asking for fan support. Still, the franchise faces significant open questions after a transformative offseason. LeBron James reflected on Madison Square Garden as he opened what he called his final chapter, a fitting setting given his history there.

Roster Moves

The Mavericks agreed to a two-way deal with former first-round pick Walter Clayton. The Warriors have begun exploring trade options for veteran center Kristaps Porzingis. Tyrese Haliburton made a fashion statement with a jacket paying tribute to Triple H during his return.

Minnesota and Season Outlook

The new LaMelo Ball and Anthony Edwards backcourt opened the season with considerable promise for Minnesota. Experts have offered their bold predictions for 2026-27, and ESPN's panel has weighed in on the East, the West and the eventual champion.

Coming Up

The Knicks' title defense is underway, with their next test following their opening night matchup against Philadelphia.