Jalen Brunson reacts to Knicks facing LeBron James, 76ers on opening night

Jalen Brunson is looking forward to the start of the New York Knicks’ title defense just like the rest of us.

The NBA teased its 2026-27 schedule release on Tuesday by revealing the season’s opening night slate, featuring a prime-time clash between the Knicks and the newly revamped Philadelphia 76ers. Before the matchup was announced, Brunson gave a non-answer when asked about LeBron James’ move to Philly.

The Knicks All-Star switched gears pretty quickly with a 76ers-Knicks clash now set in stone. Brunson appeared on the “3rd Hour of Today” show on Tuesday and was asked to weigh in on the opening-night clash.

“Fireworks for sure,” Brunson said on the program.

“I mean, they’re going to be electric. They’re going to be definitely a team to keep your eye on. They reloaded this year. It’s going to be a tough test. But we’ll be ready.”

Several oddsmakers have since pegged the Sixers’ title odds at around even with the defending champions. With the additions of James and Jaylen Brown to a core that already includes Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and VJ Edgecombe, it’s easy to understand why.

The Sixers’ new super team may be the perfect antidote against any Knicks championship hangover. New York now faces the sobering reality of LeBron heading back to the Eastern Conference.