Boston Celtics set for preseason rematch with Philadelphia 76ers in 2026-27

The Boston Celtics will square off against the Philadelphia 76ers twice in the 2026-27 NBA preseason, marking the first on-court reunion since Jaylen Brown’s trade to the Sixers. The Celtics lost their last meeting 100-109 to the 76ers on May 2, 2026, and have since dropped five straight games (LLLLL).

What’s the preseason schedule?

The Celtics will host the 76ers at TD Garden on October 10 at 8 p.m. EST, followed by a home game for Philadelphia on October 16 at 7 p.m. EST. These matchups will be the first chance to see Brown in a Sixers uniform after his decade-long tenure with Boston, where he won an NBA title and earned Finals MVP honors.

Why is this preseason series significant?

This preseason clash carries extra weight due to the offseason blockbuster trade that sent Brown to Philadelphia in exchange for Paul George, two first-round picks, and two second-round picks. Brown, a five-time All-Star, will now team up with Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, forming a new Big Three for the Sixers. The Celtics, meanwhile, will look to bounce back from a disappointing playoff exit, where they were eliminated by the 76ers in a 3-1 series comeback.

What to expect from these preseason games

While preseason games rarely feature full intensity, fans will be eager to see how Brown meshes with his new teammates. The real fireworks, however, will likely come during the regular season, with the NBA set to release the 2026-27 schedule in August. For now, these preseason matchups offer a sneak peek at one of the league’s most intriguing rivalries.