NBA Sets 2026 Christmas Day Schedule Featuring Rematches and Star Power

What Happened

The National Basketball Association has revealed its five-game Christmas Day schedule for the upcoming 2026-27 season. The lineup features a mix of high-profile matchups, including a rematch of the 2026 NBA Finals between the San Antonio Spurs and the New York Knicks. Additionally, LeBron James will make his return to Los Angeles to play against the Lakers as a member of the Philadelphia 76ers.

The schedule boasts numerous stars, including NBA champions, MVPs, and Finals MVPs such as LeBron James, Steph Curry, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Nikola Jokic. Jalen Brunson and Jaylen Brown are noted as NBA champions and Finals MVPs, while Joel Embiid is recognized for his 2022-23 MVP award.

Key Facts

• The NBA's 2026 Christmas Day schedule includes five games.
• The San Antonio Spurs will play the New York Knicks at 12 p.m. ET on ABC/ESPN.
• The Miami Heat will face the Boston Celtics at 2:30 p.m. ET on ABC/ESPN.
• The Philadelphia 76ers will play the Los Angeles Lakers at 5 p.m. ET on ABC/ESPN.
• The Oklahoma City Thunder will compete against the Minnesota Timberwolves at 8 p.m. ET on ABC/ESPN.
• The Denver Nuggets are scheduled to play the Golden State Warriors at 10:30 p.m. ET on ABC/ESPN.
• LeBron James committed to the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday, July 24, signing a two-year deal with a player option for the 2027-28 season.
• LeBron James's last game for the Lakers was a 115-110 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on May 11.
• The Knicks have played in 59 Christmas games and 51 home games on December 25.
• The Miami Heat hold a Christmas Day record of 12-2, a .857 winning percentage.
• Boston has played in 39 Christmas games, the third most all-time.

Background

The Knicks are noted as regular participants in Christmas Day games, with a history dating back to the league's first Christmas games in 1947. The Lakers and Celtics are also described as consistent participants on the holiday. LeBron James is set to play in his 21st Christmas game. Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra has a perfect 9-0 record on Christmas Day.