Feb 1, 2026; New York, New York, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) controls the ball against New York Knicks guard Landry Shamet (44) during the third quarter at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
Longtime sports media host Rich Eisen isn’t afraid of telling the world whom he wants to see playing on opening night of the 2026 NBA season.
The ESPN personality is clearly ready for basketball to return, and he’s especially looking forward to LeBron James‘ new team. The Philadelphia 76ers feature a new look with James and Jaylen Brown joining a talented roster.
However, Eisen is throwing James and Co. into the fire because he wants to see them take on the reigning NBA champion New York Knicks.
“You must put the Sixers in Madison Square Garden, on opening night, as they raise the banner,” Eisen explained during his Thursday show. “LeBron’s in there. Let’s go!”
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The Knicks enter 2026 riding a major high after winning their first title in 53 years. Meanwhile, the 76ers are in a similar position as LeBron aims to turn the Philadelphia franchise around. Philadelphia last won an NBA title in 1983.
Dream NBA opening night matchup
New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson is called up to receive a key to the city from mayor Zohran Mamdani. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
The Knicks and 76ers certainly have a heated rivalry in the Eastern Conference. That makes for an immediate draw as the NBA looks to kick back into gear for the 2026-27 campaign.
However, adding James into the mix alongside the other stars Philadelphia has to offer certainly ups the ante for both sides.
"You must put the Sixers in Madison Square Garden, on opening night, as they raise the banner. LeBron's in there. Let's go!" @richeisen is the new NBA schedule coordinator 🤯🤣
(via @RichEisenShow) pic.twitter.com/CGPtEicHki
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) July 30, 2026
There’s also a case to be made for the Knicks to raise their banner against one of the formidable teams from the Western Conference. The Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs are both expected to be fantastic again next season. New York defeated the Spurs in the 2026 NBA Finals.
Eisen’s point still stands though in regards to James. He’ll continue to be one of the biggest NBA draws until he finally decides to retire from the game.
His two-year contract in Philadelphia hopefully gives fans enough time to enjoy his last ride, especially as rumors swirl about a “Last Dance”-style documentary in the works with ESPN.
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