The Philadelphia 76ers open their 2026-27 NBA regular season against the New York Knicks on Tuesday, in a matchup featuring two teams with championship ambitions. The season opener also gives Philadelphia an opportunity to showcase its revamped roster, headlined by LeBron James, while New York begins its title defense in front of its home crowd.
With the game set for Madison Square Garden, availability will be important as both teams look to establish their rhythm early in the season. Several Philadelphia players have appeared on the injury report, but the biggest questions concern whether the teams’ leading stars will be available for opening night.
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LeBron James and Jalen Brunson injury status for 76ers vs Knicks
LeBron James is expected to play for Philadelphia against New York, as the veteran forward is not listed on the latest available 76ers injury report. The matchup marks his regular-season debut for the franchise after joining the team during the offseason.
Jalen Brunson is also expected to be available for the Knicks. New York has no players listed on its current injury report, according to the latest published update, leaving its star guard on track to lead the defending champions into their season opener.
KNICKS BEGIN TITLE DEFENSE AT MSG 🏆
— NBA (@NBA) October 20, 2026
LEBRON AND JAYLEN BROWN’S SIXERS DEBUTS 🍿
Coming off their first championship in 53 years, Jalen Brunson and the reigning champs open the season against the new-look 76ers tonight at 7pm/et on NBC and Peacock! pic.twitter.com/QlsDm0TXXC
Both stars are central to their teams’ plans. James joins a Philadelphia lineup featuring Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and Jaylen Brown, while Brunson returns alongside key Knicks contributors as New York begins its title defense.
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76ers vs Knicks injury report and game details
Philadelphia has additional availability concerns beyond its leading star. Anfernee Simons, Adem Bona and Dean Wade have been listed as questionable, while Dominick Barlow and Tacko Fall are among the players listed as unavailable in the latest reports.
The game tips off at 7 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock as the Knicks celebrate their championship before beginning their title defense.
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