NBA Mid-Season Preview: Must-Watch Games, Rivalries, and International Action (2026)

Get ready for an exciting week of NBA action as we approach the league's regular season midpoint! With every team closing in on the 41-game mark, the trade deadline is fast approaching, and the All-Star break is just around the corner. Both fans and front offices will be paying close attention to these upcoming games, as they could shape the future of the league. Here's a guide to help you navigate the week's must-watch NBA games.

NBA National TV Watch Guide

If you're lucky enough to attend these games in person, grab your tickets on StubHub! Here's a breakdown of the games and where to catch them:

Tuesday

Wednesday

  • Cavs at Sixers: 7 p.m. ET on ESPN. A clash of dynamic guards, as Tyrese Maxey and Donovan Mitchell go head-to-head. Both players have been on fire, showcasing their scoring prowess and silky smooth moves.

  • Nuggets at Mavs: 9:30 p.m. ET on ESPN. Denver's determination is on full display, even without Nikola JokiΔ‡ due to a knee injury. The Nuggets have been surprising opponents, and now they face Cooper Flagg, who is making his mark as a young triple-double threat.

Thursday

  • Grizzlies vs. Magic: 2 p.m. ET on Prime Video. A historic event as the NBA brings its first regular-season game to Germany! The Uber Arena in Berlin will host this matchup, and the Wagner brothers, Moritz and Franz, who grew up in the city, will be in action. Franz, who recently returned from an ACL injury, might even make his comeback for this special occasion.

  • Thunder at Rockets: 7:30 p.m. ET on Prime Video. A battle between two good teams in need of a statement win. The Thunder, despite a recent lull, still hold the top net rating, while the Rockets are close behind. This game could be a thriller, just like their season opener, which went into double overtime.

  • Knicks at Warriors: 10 p.m. ET on Prime Video. Get ready for a 3-point shooting showcase! Stephen Curry is on fire, averaging an impressive number of 3-point attempts, and the Warriors are getting hot from downtown. The Knicks, with their strong 3-point shooting, will provide a tough challenge.

Friday

  • Cavs at Sixers: 7 p.m. ET on ESPN. A potential sequel to Wednesday's game, but will it live up to the hype? Joel Embiid, the two-time scoring champ, might be a key factor in both games, as he manages his knee injury. Cleveland's big men, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen, will surely put up a fight.

  • Wolves at Rockets: 9:30 p.m. ET on ESPN. A matchup of two versatile lead options, as Anthony Edwards, who grew up idolizing Kevin Durant, gets to share the spotlight with his 'favorite player of all time'. This game could be a showcase of icy instincts and incredible talent.

Remember, these games are not to be missed! Tune in to NBC, Peacock, ESPN, and Prime Video to catch all the action. And for those attending in person, make sure to grab your tickets and be a part of the electric atmosphere!

And this is the part most people miss... the controversy! What if the Cavs-Sixers game on Friday turns out to be a complete reversal of the first game? Will Embiid dominate both games, or will the Cavs surprise us with an unexpected win? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's discuss!

NBA Mid-Season Preview: Must-Watch Games, Rivalries, and International Action (2026)

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