NBA 2025/26: The Must-Watch Games
Discover unmissable NBA games of the 2025/26 season, and why they are must-watch events.
As the 2025/26 NBA season prepares to tip off, fans are already marking their calendars for the biggest fixtures on the schedule. With fresh rivalries, returning legends, and historic showdowns, this season promises plenty of drama and unforgettable moments.
Some games stand out not just for their quality basketball but for their storylines and history.
Opening Night: Los Angeles Lakers vs Golden State Warriors
The season begins with a bang as the Los Angeles Lakers host the Golden State Warriors on the opening night. Any time these two meet, it’s more than a game; it’s a battle between two of the NBA’s most iconic franchises. LeBron James and Stephen Curry continue to set the standard for longevity and greatness, while both teams have retooled in hopes of another deep playoff run.
Expect fireworks as new additions and young prospects join the veterans in what’s sure to be an electric curtain-raiser. Right now, the two teams are difficult to split when looking at sports betting online, which only adds to the intrigue.
Celtics vs Lakers – The Eternal Rivalry
No rivalry defines the NBA quite like the Boston Celtics and the Los Angeles Lakers. With 35 titles between them, these two historic sides will meet twice in the 2025/26 regular season, and both clashes will command global attention.
The Celtics, led by Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, are still hunting for redemption after last season’s narrow playoff exit, while the Lakers are desperate to prove they remain elite in the West. Whenever these two giants collide, it’s more than a game; it’s a showcase of legacy and pride.
Knicks vs Nets – Battle of New York
The rivalry between the New York Knicks and Brooklyn Nets continues to grow in intensity. With both sides showing signs of resurgence, their meetings are set to be among the most entertaining of the year.
The Knicks’ passionate Madison Square Garden crowd always adds an extra spark, while the Nets’ youthful energy and attacking flair give this matchup a modern edge. Beyond city bragging rights, both teams see these clashes as statements of intent for their postseason aspirations.
Global Spotlight: Mavericks vs Pistons in Mexico City
The NBA’s global expansion continues with a regular-season game in Mexico City on November 1, featuring the Dallas Mavericks and Detroit Pistons. These international games have become key events, drawing fans from around the world. It’s a celebration of how far the NBA’s reach has grown, and how much further it can go.
Rivals Week Returns in January
The NBA’s Rivals Week has become a highlight of the regular season, and the 2026 edition promises even more drama. Taking place from January 21-25, it features a string of games steeped in rivalry and emotion.
Fans can look forward to Celtics vs Mavericks, a budding inter-conference rivalry that’s quickly becoming one of the league’s most watchable matchups, and another Lakers vs Warriors showdown that could have major implications for playoff seeding. Rivals Week perfectly captures the essence of competitive basketball – passion, pride, and pure entertainment.
Conclusion
The 2025/26 NBA season promises storylines that transcend the court. From historic rivalries like Celtics vs Lakers to emerging battles such as Knicks vs Nets, every week offers must-watch basketball. Whether it’s the bright lights of Madison Square Garden or the international buzz of Mexico City, fans have countless reasons to stay glued to the action.