2026 NBA Playoffs TV Schedule: Easy methods to Watch, Sport Instances, and Channels At the moment

The 2026 NBA Playoffs TV schedule begins right this moment with a four-game slate throughout the Japanese and Western Conferences. Protection begins at 1:00 PM ET on ABC, with subsequent video games airing on ESPN and ABC.

• TV Channels: ABC, ESPN, TNT, and NBA TV.
• Streaming: Watch dwell by way of ESPN+, Max (B/R Sports activities Add-on), and YouTube TV.
• Opening Sport: (5) Raptors at (4) Cavaliers – 1:00 PM ET (ABC).
• Principal Occasion: (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 throughout 4 main networks. In the course of the first spherical, ABC and ESPN deal with the vast majority of weekend doubleheaders, whereas TNT stays the first dwelling for weeknight matchups.

For cord-cutters, the 2026 postseason is extra accessible than ever. All video games airing on ABC could be streamed concurrently on ESPN+, whereas TNT’s broadcasts can be found to subscribers of Max by way of the B/R Sports activities Add-on. Followers in search of out-of-market protection or particular collection evaluation can tune into NBA TV, which is able to carry choose first-round video games.

The largest storyline for the opening weekend includes the Los Angeles Lakers, who enter their collection towards the Houston Rockets with out superstars Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves. This prime-time matchup headlines the Saturday evening slot, traditionally one of many most-watched home windows of the opening spherical.

Saturday, April 18: Opening Day TV Schedule

Sunday, April 19: TV Schedule 

Regularly Requested Questions (FAQ)

What channel are the NBA Playoffs on right this moment? At the moment’s video games (Saturday, April 18) are break up between ABC and ESPN. The primary two video games and the night-cap are on ABC, whereas the 6:00 PM ET matchup is on ESPN.

How can I stream the NBA Playoffs with out cable? You’ll be able to stream ABC and ESPN video games on ESPN+, Hulu + Reside TV, or Fubo. TNT video games could be streamed dwell by way of the Max app with the B/R Sports activities Add-on.

Are there native blackouts for the NBA Playoffs? In the course of the first spherical, some video games could also be topic to native blackouts if they’re being broadcast by a Regional Sports activities Community (RSN). Nevertheless, all video games from the Convention Semifinals onward are unique to nationwide tv.

NBA Playoff Sources

Obtain the 2026 NBA Bracket

Prepared to trace each sport? Click on the button under to get your official high-res printable bracket.

Laurie Marion is a devoted hockey and school soccer fanatic on the Sports activities Brackets group. A lifelong Boston Bruins fan and proud supporter of the Minnesota Golden Gophers and Massive Ten, she covers schedules, brackets, playoffs, and extra with ardour and experience.