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The Cavaliers will open their 2026-27 campaign with a preseason matchup against the Celtics on Thursday night.
There's much anticipation surrounding the Cavs this year, as the franchise is coming off of its deepest playoff run since losing LeBron. Cleveland has retained its core of Donovan Mitchell, James Harden, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen, and new addition Peyton Watson should help to round out the starting five.
Meanwhile, Boston is entering a new era without long-time starter Jaylen Brown, who the franchise traded to Philadelphia in July. The Celtics are still in great shape though, with Jayson Tatum healthy, and Paul George and Mitchell Robinson adding new depth to the squad.
Who will start their season with a win?
Here's everything you need to know about Cavs vs. Celtics, including TV channel and streaming options for the NBA preseason game.
Where to watch Cavs vs. Celtics today
- TV channels: WOIO/WUAB (Cleveland) NBC Sports Boston
- Live streams: DAZN (Cleveland)
The Cavs-Celtics game will be televised locally by WOIO (Channel 19) and WUAB (Channel 43 in Cleveland, and NBC Sports Boston. Those in the Detroit area can also watch live and on-demand with DAZN.
DAZN is Cleveland's new direct-to-consumer media partner, set to air preseason and regular-season games along with additional Cavs content all season long (read more here). All games not selected for exclusive national broadcast by one of the league's partners will be available to stream live and on-demand with DAZN, which offers a free trial for new subscribers.
What time is Cavs vs. Celtics today?
- Date: Thursday, Oct. 8
- Time: 7 p.m. ET
The Cavs vs. Celtics preseason opener is set to tip off Thursday at 7 p.m. ET. The game will be played at Rocket Arena in Cleveland, OH.
Cavs schedule 2026-27
Here are Cleveland's upcoming games:
| Oct. 8 | vs. Celtics* | 7 p.m. |
| Oct. 11 | vs. Magic* | 6:30 p.m. |
| Oct. 13 | at Magic* | 7 p.m. |
| Oct. 22 | at 76ers | 7 p.m. |
| Oct. 24 | vs. Nets | 7:30 p.m. |
* Preseason game
Celtics schedule 2026-27
Here are Boston's upcoming games:
| Oct. 8 | at Cavs* | 7 p.m. |
| Oct. 10 | vs. 76ers* | 8 p.m. |
| Oct. 14 | vs. Hornets* | 7:30 p.m. |
| Oct. 16 | at 76ers | 7 p.m. |
| Oct. 20 | at Pistons | 3 p.m. |
* Preseason game
