2026-2027 NBA season expert picks for East, West, Finals champs - ESPN

The NBA returns with three high-profile games on Tuesday.

The New York Knicks are back to defend their first championship in 53 years with an opener against the new-look Philadelphia 76ers (7 p.m. ET, NBC). LeBron James and Jaylen Brown headed to Philadelphia this offseason to join forces with Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey & Co., as the franchise tries to end a title drought of its own.

In the West, Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs look to build on their run to the Finals last season, while the rival Oklahoma City Thunder hope to regain their conference superiority and head to their second Finals in three seasons. The two teams meet Tuesday night to kick off their seasons (9:30 p.m. ET, NBC).

The Thunder will once again be led by Shai-Gilgeous Alexander, who is chasing his third straight MVP award. Gilgeous-Alexander will have his work cut out for him, as Wembanyama continues his ascension in the league, Giannis Antetokounmpo hits Miami and Jalen Brunson is fresh off a Finals MVP performance.

Before the players hit the court, our NBA insiders cast their ballots for the winners of each conference, the NBA champion and who will be the 2026-27 Most Valuable Player.

Check out which teams and players to keep an eye on this season ahead of the action!

MORE: 30-team preview | NBA Rank 100-51 | 50-11 | 10-1

Jamal Collier: Indiana Pacers
Ben Golliver: Boston Celtics
Vincent Goodwill: Philadelphia 76ers
Danny Green: New York Knicks
Zach Kram: Toronto Raptors
Tim MacMahon: New York Knicks
Bobby Marks: New York Knicks
Dave McMenamin: New York Knicks
Dean Oliver: Boston Celtics
Jorge Sedano: Philadelphia 76ers
Ramona Shelburne: Philadelphia 76ers
Anthony Slater: New York Knicks
Marc. J Spears: Philadelphia 76ers
Jeremy Woo: Bo