The New York Knicks’ full 2026 preseason schedule just dropped, and it gives us the first look at how our reigning champs are gonna tune up for their title defense. This five-game slate, running from October 5th through October 15th, hits four different opponents and includes three games at Madison Square Garden with two road trips, one of them even outside the USA. New York kicks things off right away on October 5th, heading to Philadelphia for what’s gonna be a wild opener.
Philly’s Loaded and Ready to Test the Champs
Forget easing into it, because the preseason opener against the Philadelphia 76ers is easily the most intriguing matchup on this whole schedule. Seriously, who isn’t hyped to see what Philly brings after they added freaking LeBron James and Jaylen Brown in the offseason? That’s alongside Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe, and a hopefully healthy Joel Embiid. On paper, that Sixers team is a legit first test, even if we know a lot of those big names might not play a ton of minutes. But still, the thought of that much talent on the other side? It’s a statement game, even for preseason. The champs gotta be ready for that kind of energy, especially on the road.
Wizards, Wolves, and a Canadian Double-Header
After that Philly trip, the Knicks are back home for their first MSG appearance against the Washington Wizards on October 8th. The Wizards might have lost D’Angelo Russell, but they brought in Deandre Ayton, Khris Middleton, and AJ Dybantsa, with Trae Young still running the show. Honestly, I’m highly intrigued by this squad; they’re even an underdog to make the ECF. Then on October 12th, Minnesota rolls into MSG. This is another meeting between two teams that went deep into last season’s playoffs, so you know there’s gonna be some fire. Plus, can we get a glimpse of that new LaMelo Ball-Anthony Edwards backcourt? We better! This is also the last game before the Knicks hit a home-and-home series against the Toronto Raptors. They’ll be on the road for the first one on October 13th, then back at MSG on October 15th to wrap up preseason. That final home game at MSG was originally listed at 7 PM ET by the Raptors, but the Knicks officially corrected it to a 7:30 PM tipoff. So set your alarms right!
This is a packed preseason schedule that truly tests our reigning champs right out of the gate. From a loaded Sixers team to deep playoff contenders in the Wolves, the Knicks aren’t getting any easy warm-ups. It all kicks off October 5th against Philly, and you know everyone’s gonna be watching to see how the squad prepares to defend that title. Let’s go!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Posting and Toasting.
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