LeBron James' debut with the Philadelphia 76ers will be against the New York Knicks on a mouthwatering opening night of the new NBA season.

The defending champions will raise their banner at Madison Square Garden on October 20 before taking on their fierce rivals, who recently landed the biggest star in basketball.

Earlier this summer, New York secured its first title since 1973 with a stunning postseason run that included a sweep of the Sixers in the Eastern Conference semifinals. 

But Philadelphia has been transformed this offseason by the arrival of both James, 41, and former Celtics star Jaylen Brown. 

Their huge showdown headlines three games on opening night. Elsewhere that day, the Detroit Pistons welcome the Boston Celtics before the Oklahoma City Thunder face the San Antonio Spurs.

But all eyes will be on MSG, where James will make his bow for Philadelphia after a protracted saga over his next step. 

It was also confirmed on Tuesday that James will face his former team, the Los Angeles Lakers, on Christmas Day.

Other games slated for December 25 include the Spurs against the Knicks in a re-run of last season's NBA Finals.

After months of uncertainty over his NBA future, James' move to Philadelphia was confirmed late last month.  

The NBA veteran penned a heartfelt and candid message to fans explaining his decision, admitting that he believes he can turn the 76ers into 'a championship team'.

James has reportedly put pen to paper on a modest $8million, two-year contract with the Sixers. He made nearly $53m last season.