The NBA returns with three high-profile games on Tuesday.
The New York Knicks are back to defend their first championship in 53 years with an opener against the new-look Philadelphia 76ers (7 p.m. ET, NBC). LeBron James and Jaylen Brown headed to Philadelphia this offseason to join forces with Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey & Co., as the franchise tries to end a title drought of its own.
In the West, Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs look to build on their run to the Finals last season, while the rival Oklahoma City Thunder hope to regain their conference superiority and head to their second Finals in three seasons. The two teams meet Tuesday night to kick off their seasons (9:30 p.m. ET, NBC). Editor's Picks What NBA preseason revealed about all 30 teams Ben Golliver NBA intel: KAT's next deal, expansion's next steps -- and why rival teams are watching Orlando Brian Windhorst After surprise Finals run, Spurs know return trip won't be easy Michael C. Wright 2 Related
The Thunder will once again be led by Shai-Gilgeous Alexander, who is chasing his third straight MVP award. Gilgeous-Alexander will have his work cut out for him, as Wembanyama continues his ascension in the league, Giannis Antetokounmpo hits Miami and Jalen Brunson is fresh off a Finals MVP performance.
Before the players hit the court, our NBA insiders cast their ballots for the winners of each conference, the NBA champion and who will be the 2026-27 Most Valuable Player.
Check out which teams and players to keep an eye on this season ahead of the action!
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Eastern Conference champion
Jamal Collier: Indiana Pacers Ben Golliver: Boston Celtics Vincent Goodwill: Philadelphia 76ers Danny Green: New York Knicks Zach Kram: Toronto Raptors Tim MacMahon: New York Knicks Bobby Marks: New York Knicks Dave McMenamin: New York Knicks Dean Oliver: Boston Celtics Jorge Sedano: Philadelphia 76ers Ramona Shelburne: Philadelphia 76ers Anthony Slater: New York Knicks Marc. J Spears: Philadelphia 76ers Jeremy Woo: Boston Celtics Michael C. Wright: Philadelphia 76ers
Final tally: Knicks 5, 76ers 5, Celtics 3, Pacers 1, Raptors 1
Final tally: Thunder 10, Spurs 5
NBA Finals picks
Jamal Collier: Thunder over Pacers Ben Golliver: Thunder over Celtics Vincent Goodwill: Thunder over 76ers Danny Green: Spurs over Knicks Zach Kram: Spurs over Raptors Tim MacMahon: Thunder over Knicks Bobby Marks: Thunder over Knicks Dave McMenamin: Thunder over Knicks Dean Oliver: Thunder over Celtics Jorge Sedano: Thunder over Knicks Ramona Shelburne: Spurs over 76ers Anthony Slater: Thunder over Knicks Marc. J Spears: Spurs over 76ers Jeremy Woo: Thunder over Celtics Michael C. Wright: Spurs over 76ers