The New York Knicks dominated the Cleveland Cavaliers during the Eastern Conference finals of the 2026 NBA playoffs, defeating the Cavs in four games. That means they’re headed to the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999. (The last time they actually won a title was 1973.) Meanwhile, in the Western Conference finals, the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs continue to battle. The Thunder lead that series 3-2, and Game 6 is scheduled for Thursday, May 28. At this point, either team could win the thing and face the Knicks in the finals; we’ll just have to keep watching to find out who it will be. Here’s what you need to know so you won’t miss a single game of the 2026 NBA playoffs.
How to watch the 2026 NBA playoffs:
Dates: April 14 – June, 2026
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TV channel: NBC, ESPN, ABC
Streaming: Peacock, ESPN Unlimited, DirecTV and more
What channels are broadcasting NBA playoff games?
NBA playoff games will be broadcast across Prime Video, NBC, ABC, and ESPN.
How to watch the 2026 NBA playoffs without cable:
NBA playoff games that air on NBC will also stream on Peacock. Games on ABC and ESPN are also streaming on ESPN Unlimited. You can find all these channels on streaming platforms like DirecTV and YouTube TV.
ESPN
ESPN’s streaming platform offers thousands of exclusive live events, original studio shows and acclaimed series that air across ESPN’s suite of seven linear channels, as well as exclusive content on ESPN+, ABC on ESPN, SEC+, ACCNX and more. Every game of the NBA Eastern Conference finals as well as the 2026 championship finals will stream on ESPN Unlimited. The new tier costs $29.99/month or $299.99/year.
ESPN Select allows subscribers to access exclusive content only available on the app, and an extensive archive of on-demand content (including the entire 30 For 30 library, select ESPN Films, game replays and more). Whether you purchase a standalone plan, add-on or Disney bundle plan, the service provides access to thousands of sports events for $12.99/month or $129.99/year.
Peacock
For $11/month, an ad-supported Peacock subscription lets you stream live sports and events airing on NBC, including the NBA playoffs. Plus, you’ll get access to thousands of hours of shows and movies, including beloved sitcoms such as Parks and Recreation and The Office, every Bravo show and much more.
For $17 monthly you can upgrade to an ad-free subscription which includes live access to your local NBC affiliate (not just during designated sports and events) and the ability to download select titles to watch offline.
More ways to watch NBA playoff Games:
2026 NBA Conference Finals Schedule:
All times Eastern
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May 28: Game 6: OKC Thunder vs. San Antonio Spurs: 8:30 p.m. (NBC/Peacock)
May 30: Game 7: San Antonio Spurs vs. OKC Thunder: 8 p.m. (NBC/Peacock) (If necessary)
2026 NBA Finals Schedule:
June 3: Game 1: New York Knicks vs. San Antonio Spurs/OKC Thunder on ABC, 8:30 p.m. ET
June 5: Game 2: New York Knicks vs. San Antonio Spurs/OKC Thunder on ABC, 8:30 p.m. ET
June 8: Game 3: New York Knicks vs. San Antonio Spurs/OKC Thunder on ABC, 8:30 p.m. ET
June 10: Game 4: New York Knicks vs. San Antonio Spurs/OKC Thunder on ABC, 8:30 p.m. ET
June 13: Game 5: New York Knicks vs. San Antonio Spurs/OKC Thunder on ABC, 8:30 p.m. ET (if necessary)
June 16: Game 6: New York Knicks vs. San Antonio Spurs/OKC Thunder on ABC, 8:30 p.m. ET (if necessary)
June 19: Game 7: New York Knicks vs. San Antonio Spurs/OKC Thunder on ABC, 8:30 p.m. ET (if necessary)