The NBA released its 2016-17 regular-season schedule on Thursday. As Philadelphia 76ers fans peruse their team's schedule, here are the five games they should circle on their calendar:
Oct. 26: 76ers vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
The season opener is significant not only because the world is waiting to see No. 1 overall pick Ben Simmons play an NBA game, but also because it will also mark the long-awaited debuts of 2014 draft picks Joel Embiid and Dario Saric. And it will happen against Russell Westbrook and company.
Nov. 5: 76ers vs. Cleveland Cavaliers
If the Sixers want to gauge how much they've improved, there's no better barometer than LeBron James and the defending champion Cavaliers.
Dec. 16: 76ers vs. Los Angeles Lakers
This will be the first matchup featuring the No. 1 and No. 2 overall draft picks -- Simmons and the Lakers' Brandon Ingram.
Dec. 18: 76ers vs. Brooklyn Nets
Need a win? The Nets were one of two teams (the other being Phoenix) that the Sixers defeated twice during the 2015 season.
Feb. 27: 76ers vs. Golden State Warriors
Any game against a Warriors team that features the reigning two-time MVP (Stephen Curry), a former MVP (Kevin Durant) and two other All-Stars (Klay Thompson and Draymond Green) is worth noting.
