Lakers host Warriors as NBA season tips off: How to watch, latest odds

Date: &nbsp;Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2025
Time: &nbsp;10 p.m. ET (7 p.m. PT)
Location: Crypto.com Arena in&nbsp;Los Angeles
TV: NBC
Stream: &nbsp;Fubo, Peacock

Among modern-day NBA rivalries, few come close to the spectacle that comes with Steph Curry vs. LeBron James. Since their years going head-to-head in the NBA Finals, the pair have had several more showdowns once James relocated to Los Angeles.

Unfortunately, James, who is dealing with a sciatica issue, will miss this contest, the first opening night he’s missed in his entire career. But that doesn’t mean this opening night will be any less enthralling though. With the game-changing acquisition of Luka Dončić last season, the Los Angeles Lakers secured their future, and we’ll get a glimpse of that future tonight.

That said, the first full season of the Dončić era in L.A. could get off to a rocky start. The Golden State Warriors were one of the best teams in the league after acquiring Jimmy Butler from the Miami Heat at the trade deadline a season ago, boasting a 23-7 record to finish the regular season. When these Warriors are healthy, they’re one of the most dangerous teams in the league.

USA TODAY Sports will have full coverage of the game between the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors on NBA opening night. Here is everything you need to know to follow along.

What time does Warriors vs. Lakers game start?

The 2025-26 NBA season opener between the Golden State Warriors and Los Angeles Lakers is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 21 at 10 p.m. ET (7 p.m. local) in Los Angeles.