NBA season opener sees LeBron at center and unusual strategies from teams
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 21, 2026, 1:04 PM
Last updated Oct 21, 2026

The NBA's season-opening tripleheader on October 21 features a notable position shift for LeBron James, who is playing at center for the Los Angeles Lakers. This adjustment comes as teams like the Philadelphia 76ers and Oklahoma City Thunder implement creative strategies in their games. Both the 76ers and Thunder aim to secure early wins in the new season, making adjustments to their lineups that emphasize versatility. These tactical changes could set the tone for the rest of the season as teams navigate their rosters and game plans in the opening weeks.
- •LeBron James is playing at center for the Lakers.
- •Philadelphia 76ers and Oklahoma City Thunder show creative strategies in their games.
- •The season opener took place on October 21.
- •Tactical adjustments may affect teams' performances this season.
- •Three games were featured in the season-opening tripleheader.
- 1:58 PMESPN — Windhorst's opening night takeaways: How Philly, OKC got creative in road wins
"Brian Windhorst examines a surprising shift for LeBron, plus more takeaways from the NBA's season-opening tripleheader.
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