Game Preview: Let’s get this season started!

The Phoenix Suns open their 2026–27 NBA regular season on the road against the Portland Trail Blazers on October 21, 2026, at the Moda Center. The matchup serves as a rematch from the previous season's Play-In Tournament, where Portland defeated Phoenix 114–110. The game marks the regular-season debut of a revamped Blazers roster featuring the return of Damian Lillard alongside offseason addition Ja Morant.

Writer John Voita predicts a 118–110 victory for the Phoenix Suns, arguing that their continuity and defensive capabilities will overcome Portland. Injury reports list Luke Kennard and Deni Avdija as questionable, while Phoenix center Mark Williams and Portland guard Shaedon Sharpe remain sidelined. Key storylines include Devin Booker's shooting, Jalen Green's playmaking, and controlling Portland's offensive rebounding.