The NBA released its schedule for each of the 30 NBA teams Thursday, letting us mark our calendars for all the big games.
Some teams will complain more than others. The Philadelphia 76ers, Denver Nuggets, Phoenix Suns, Charlotte Hornets and Washington Wizards play 16 back-to-backs, more than any other team. Seven other teams are right behind them with 15.
Oklahoma City provided a win for small markets as the reigning champion Thunder have the most nationally televised games (34). The Los Angeles Lakers, Golden State Warriors and New York Knicks are also tied with them.
Opening night, Christmas Day and the NBA Cup have already been covered, so this time around let’s look at some highly anticipated games of players going up against their former teams.
Where To Watch KEY DATES for the 2025-26 NBA season 📺🏀
The full schedule is out, learn more: https://t.co/Zm2PTBkf2p pic.twitter.com/UY0OLneawc
— NBA (@NBA) August 14, 2025
Turner’s Return To Indiana
Nov. 3, 7:00 p.m. EST
This return could offer some mixed reactions. On the one hand, Myles Turner has joined a Milwaukee Bucks team with which the Indiana Pacers have formed a tense rivalry.
On the other, it’s the Pacers front office to blame for why the longest-tenured member of the team last season is no longer in their uniform. Turner spent 10 memorable seasons with Indiana, none more so than last season’s Finals run.
It would have been amazing to see this team run it back but the Tyrese Haliburton injury threw plans completely off course. One way or the other, it will be an emotional Nov. 3 in Indiana.
Durant’s Return To Phoenix
Nov. 24, 9:30 p.m. EST
It was not for a long time and it was not a good time. The much hyped Kevin Durant era in Phoenix ended in misery. The team came nowhere near contention and is now left licking its wounds.
The Suns look a team in no man’s land on the back of doing everything it could to duck the second apron. Durant, meanwhile, got what he wanted (once again) with a trade to what now looks a legitimate title contender in the Houston Rockets.
From the outside looking in, it doesn’t appear as though too many hold a grudge against Durant for the way the last few seasons unfolded. We’ll find out with certainty how Suns fans feel just over a month into the season.
Porzingis’ Return To Boston
Jan. 17, 7:30p.m. EST
This should make for a very amicable reunion. Porzingis came to Boston and helped the franchise win a title. That’s an automatic ovation. Add to the fact he only got traded for salary cap purposes and had no actual intent to leave otherwise, and fans should absolutely give him a very warm welcome when the Atlanta Hawks come to town that night.
Porzingis even became somewhat of a cult hero in Boston with several classic interactions with fans. He also showed a willingness to battle injury and illness to be out there for his team.
James’ Return To Cleveland
Jan. 28, 7:00 p.m. EST
Sure, it’s not LeBron James’ first return to Cleveland, far from it. In fact, we’re so far from it this could even be his last return.
Whispers suggest James is intent on playing one more season after 2025-26, which would likely make this his penultimate return. For a man entering his age-41 season, though, you never know how the body may dictate otherwise.
James is forever a hero in his home city of Cleveland after returning from Miami to deliver a championship in 2016. It is one of the most iconic moments in NBA history and Cavs fans will know to cherish every second he has left at Rocket Arena.
Porter Jr.’s Return To Denver
Jan. 29, 9:00 p.m EST
Here’s another player who should receive a hero’s welcome.
Michael Porter Jr. played a key role in the Denver Nuggets’ 2023 championship. He has his limitations but was a very good third banana to Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray’s two-man game.
The Nuggets had several needs to address this offseason and trading Porter opened the door to a possible upgrade in Cameron Johnson, as well as financial flexibility to boost their depth.
Help a team win a championship then become a central piece in a trade that might help it win another one? There will be nothing but good vibes for this visit.
Honorable mentions: Chris Paul plays his first game back with the Los Angeles Clippers Oct. 22. Damian Lillard will surely get a huge ovation on the sidelines during the Portland Trail Blazers’ home opener the same night. Lonzo Ball returns to Chicago on Dec. 17.
