The 2026-27 NBA schedule was released on August 13, 2026, and it is loaded with revenge games and emotional homecomings

This offseason produced one of the most star-studded trade cycles in recent memory, sending franchise cornerstones like LeBron James, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Jaylen Brown and Ja Morant to new homes. 

Add in two superstars returning from major injuries on opening night, and the 2026-27 schedule is stacked with games that carry weight far beyond the standings.

From season-opening comebacks to Christmas Day fireworks, here are the marquee matchups fans need circled on their calendars. This is as per Underdog NBA’s X post.

Oct. 21: Hali’s First Game Back (at NOP)

Tyrese Haliburton’s return has been over a year in the making. After tearing his Achilles in Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals, Haliburton spent the entire 2025-26 season on the sideline rehabbing. 

He’s back on opening night, on the road against New Orleans, with every eye locked on his movement and conditioning as he tries to steer Indiana’s up-tempo offense again.

Oct. 21: Dame’s First Game Back (vs. PHX)

Same night, same storyline. Damian Lillard missed nearly the entire 2025-26 season recovering from a torn left Achilles tendon injury suffered in the previous year’s playoffs. 

He returns in front of his home crowd against a loaded Phoenix squad led by Devin Booker. This is an immediate check for his rhythm and explosiveness right out of the gate.

Nov. 6: Trae Returns to Atlanta

Trae Young’s eight-year run in Atlanta ended when he was traded to the Washington Wizards. This was done to shift directions and build around Jalen Johnson.

Fans in Atlanta will likely have mixed feelings — some cheering, some booing — as Trae Young tries to put on a show and prove he can succeed with his new team.

Dec. 25: First Knicks vs. Spurs finals rematch

This Christmas Day game is a direct rematch of the 2026 NBA Finals, where the New York Knicks defeated the Spurs 4–1 to claim the title. This marked their first championship victory since 1973.

Playing in front of their home crowd at Madison Square Garden, the reigning champions will look to defend their crown, while Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs come into New York hungry for payback.

Dec. 25: LeBron returns to LA

LeBron James closed out an eight-year run with the Los Angeles Lakers this offseason, signing with the Philadelphia 76ers for his 24th NBA season. 

His first trip back to Crypto.com Arena, on Christmas night no less, he takes on his former co-star Anthony Davis. It’s shaping up to be one of the most emotionally charged games of the entire season.

Jan. 21: Jaylen Returns to Boston

After 10 seasons, a championship, and a Finals MVP with the Boston Celtics, Jaylen Brown was traded to the 76ers in a blockbuster summer trade for Paul George and draft picks. 

When Jaylen Brown returns to play in Boston, the arena will air a special video honoring his 10 years with the Celtics. Then he will face off against his former co-star, Jayson Tatum, in a heated game.

Jan. 28: Giannis Returns to Milwaukee

13 seasons and a championship with the Milwaukee Bucks ended with Giannis Antetokounmpo’s trade to the Miami Heat. The reason for this trade was due to increased roster strain, consecutive early playoff exits, and a missed postseason. Therefore, he wanted to seek a fresh championship challenge.

Giannis Antetokounmpo’s return to Milwaukee will be shown on Amazon Prime. This will most likely be one of the most emotional games of the year, with Bucks fans giving their former star a huge celebration before the game starts.

Feb. 6: Ja Returns to Memphis

Ja Morant’s explosive seven-year run with the Memphis Grizzlies came to an end when they traded him to Portland in a full roster reset. The team made this decision due to his diminishing trade value because of recurring injuries, off-court controversies, and friction with the front office

He returns to FedExForum to face his former teammates. That makes this one of the most exciting and emotional games that fans are looking forward to.

Feb. 15: LaMelo Returns to Charlotte

LaMelo Ball spent his first six seasons as the face of the Charlotte Hornets before landing with the Minnesota Timberwolves. 

He will return to Spectrum Center sharing the backcourt with Anthony Edwards, going up against a young Charlotte core now led by Brandon Miller.

Which of these return games are you most excited to watch? Let us know in the comments.

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