The 2026 NBA Playoffs TV schedule starts today with a four-game slate across the Eastern and Western Conferences. Coverage begins at 1:00 PM ET on ABC, with subsequent games airing on ESPN and ABC.
- TV Channels: ABC, ESPN, TNT, and NBA TV.
- Streaming: Watch live via ESPN+, Max (B/R Sports Add-on), and YouTube TV.
- Opening Game: (5) Raptors at (4) Cavaliers – 1:00 PM ET (ABC).
- Main Event: (5) Rockets at (4) Lakers – 8:30 PM ET (ABC).
2026 NBA Playoff Broadcast Overview
The 2026 NBA Playoffs TV schedule is a coordinated effort across four major networks. During the first round, ABC and ESPN handle the majority of weekend doubleheaders, while TNT remains the primary home for weeknight matchups.
For cord-cutters, the 2026 postseason is more accessible than ever. All games airing on ABC can be streamed simultaneously on ESPN+, while TNT’s broadcasts are available to subscribers of Max via the B/R Sports Add-on. Fans looking for out-of-market coverage or specific series analysis can tune into NBA TV, which will carry select first-round games.
The biggest storyline for the opening weekend involves the Los Angeles Lakers, who enter their series against the Houston Rockets without superstars Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves. This prime-time matchup headlines the Saturday night slot, historically one of the most-watched windows of the opening round.
Saturday, April 18: Opening Day TV Schedule
| Matchup | Time (ET) | TV Channel |
| (5) Raptors at (4) Cavaliers | 1:00 PM | ABC |
| (6) Timberwolves at (3) Nuggets | 3:30 PM | ABC |
| (6) Hawks at (3) Knicks | 6:00 PM | ESPN |
| (5) Rockets at (4) Lakers | 8:30 PM | ABC |
Sunday, April 19: TV Schedule
| Matchup | Time (ET) | TV Channel |
| (8) Magic at (1) Pistons | 1:00 PM | ABC |
| (7) Trail Blazers at (2) Spurs | 3:30 PM | ABC |
| (7) 76ers at (2) Celtics | 7:00 PM | TNT |
| (8) Suns at (1) Thunder | 9:30 PM | TNT |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What channel are the NBA Playoffs on today? Today’s games (Saturday, April 18) are split between ABC and ESPN. The first two games and the night-cap are on ABC, while the 6:00 PM ET matchup is on ESPN.
How can I stream the NBA Playoffs without cable? You can stream ABC and ESPN games on ESPN+, Hulu + Live TV, or Fubo. TNT games can be streamed live via the Max app with the B/R Sports Add-on.
Are there local blackouts for the NBA Playoffs? During the first round, some games may be subject to local blackouts if they are being broadcast by a Regional Sports Network (RSN). However, all games from the Conference Semifinals onward are exclusive to national television.
NBA Playoff Resources
- [Printable NBA Bracket] : Download our finalized, high-resolution bracket for your office pool.
- [Sports Brackets AI Analysis] : See which teams the AI model favors in the first round.
- [Interactive Bracket Builder] : Build and share your own postseason path to the Finals.
Download the 2026 NBA Bracket
Ready to track every game? Click the button below to get your official high-res printable bracket.
