Ranking the Top-5 Biggest Games From Cavaliers 2026-27 NBA Schedule

Entering the 2026-27 NBA season, the Cleveland Cavaliers have a lot to prove after reaching the Eastern Conference Finals a year ago.

Cleveland will be looking to bounce back after being swept by the New York Knicks in the conference finals. However, the East should be much tougher this season, giving Cleveland another challenge ahead of them.

But before the season gets started, what games should the Cavaliers have circled on the schedule? Here are the five biggest games from the upcoming season for Cleveland.

5. November 2 vs Oklahoma City Thunder

Despite the Thunder falling short in the playoffs last year, they are still seen as the team to beat in the Western Conference. Games against Oklahoma City could show Cleveland how they stack up against the top teams in the other conference.

The Cavaliers believe that they can be title contenders, but unless they can beat the Thunder, it could be a tough ask. But these games can prove a lot for rosters, even early on in the season.

4. April 9 at Indiana Pacers

This game is just before the playoffs start, and it could have seeding implications in the East. Indiana is expected to return to prominence this season, and this could mean that they are hovering around where the Cavaliers will be in the standings.

Being able to take down the Pacers right before the playoffs could offer Cleveland some confidence if they meet up. The Cavaliers and Pacers could easily be playoff opponents, adding some extra intrigue to this game.

3. March 9 at Detroit Pistons

Much like the game against Indiana, the Cavaliers could easily face the Pistons in the playoffs. Cleveland was able to take down Detroit in the postseason last year, and the Pistons could be out for some revenge.

Going into a hostile environment about a month from the playoffs starting will test the Cavaliers in a good way. Cleveland has to win games like this if they want to be seen as true contenders for the title this year.

2. October 22 at Philadelphia 76ers

This is the opening game of the season for Cleveland, and they get to face off against old friend LeBron James. Instead of coming back to the Cavaliers this offseason, James decided to sign with the Philadelphia 76ers.

This could be a perfect chance for Cleveland to show James that he made a mistake in his free agency decision. But this game also offers the Cavaliers a chance to open the year with a massive road win. 

1. November 7 vs New York Knicks

This is the first game against the Knicks since the conference finals sweep, and it's a chance for the Cavaliers to make a statement. Cleveland is going to want to test themselves against the defending champions, giving them a measuring-stick opportunity.

It may be a new season, but New York is the team to beat for all of 2026-27. The fans in Cleveland will be ready to go, and it'll be up to the players to match the energy.