Knicks get LeBron James, 76ers to open title defense as NBA schedule starts leaking out

The Knicks’ title defense will start against LeBron James.

The reigning champions will welcome James and the 76ers to MSG on Oct. 20 for the start of the NBA season as they are expected to raise their new title banner, ESPN.com reported.

James joined a re-tooled 76ers team after a lengthy free agency that is expected to be among the Knicks’ biggest challengers in the Eastern Conference this season.

Knicks celebrate championship win over Spurs on June 13, 2026. Jason Szenes for NY Post

Along with signing James, the 76ers traded for Celtics star Jaylen Brown to add to a core of Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid and VJ Edgecombe.

The Spurs, who lost to the Knicks in five games in the NBA Finals, will host the Thunder in the other night game on the NBA season’s opening slate.

LeBron James signed with the 76ers this offseason. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

The Pistons welcome the Celtics in a matinee clash at 3 p.m. ET to begin the 2026-27 campaign.

Check back later for more on this developing story…