Want to keep reading? Get Basic Access now for free!
Sign up now for FREE and get instant access to:
- This article
- Select recruiting news and features
- Breaking news alerts
- David Glenn Show interviews
Already a member? Login here.
How to Catch Every Dazzling Play: Your Legal Streaming Guide to Phoenix Suns vs New York Knicks 2026: team news, livestream, TV channel, and start time
The matchup is set for 2026: the high-flying, offensive juggernaut Phoenix Suns take on the relentless, defensive-minded New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Whether you’re cheering for Booker and Durant or Brunson and the Garden’s electric energy, missing this game is not an option. With the media landscape always evolving, hereโs your definitive, up-to-date guide to streaming the Phoenix Suns vs. New York Knicks game legally and in high definition.Watch: Knicks vs Suns Live
When is Knicks vs. Suns?
This contest between the Knicks and Suns will happen on Saturday, January 17, 2026. You should expect the opening tip at 7:30 p.m. ET.Where to watch Knicks vs. Suns
The Knicks and Suns will hit the hardwood at Madison Square Garden.The Golden Rule: Know Your Broadcast Rights
First, identify the national broadcaster. This determines which streaming service you’ll need. For the 2025-2026 season, the NBAโs national TV partners are expected to remain:- ESPN/ABC
- TNT
- NBA TV
- Suns Fans: Arizonaโs Family Sports (This is the new name for the former Bally Sports Arizona, following the 2024-2025 restructuring).
- Knicks Fans: MSG Network.
Your Streaming Playbook: Choose Your Option
1. For National TV Games (ESPN, TNT, ABC) If the game is featured on a national broadcast, these are your best legal streaming options:- YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, FuboTV, DIRECTV STREAM:
- Why they work: These live TV streaming services carry ESPN, TNT, and (for YouTube TV & Hulu) ABC in most markets. They are the most cable-like experience without a contract.
- Key Check: Use their channel lookup tools to confirm your local ABC affiliate is included in your area. FuboTV traditionally does not carry TNT, so verify if this has changed for the 2026 season.
- Sling TV:
- The Cost-Effective Choice: Sling Orange ($40/month) includes ESPN, while Sling Blue includes your local Fox/NBC (for ABC games) and possibly your RSN. You may need both (Sling Orange + Blue) for comprehensive coverage.
- Note: TNT is available on Sling Orange. Check for ABC availability via an antenna.
- The Network’s Own App (ESPN App, TNT App):
- You can stream the game directly through these apps, but you must log in with credentials from a TV provider (like the cable or streaming services listed above). This is a great option for watching on mobile or tablet.
- Streaming Services with RSNs:
- DIRECTV STREAM (Choice Package & above) and FuboTV (Pro Plan & above) are the most consistent carriers of both Arizonaโs Family Sports and MSG Network. Always double-check their official channel lineups before signing up.
- Team-Specific Streaming:
- MSG+ & Arizonaโs Family+: By 2026, direct-to-consumer streaming services for both teams are likely well-established. For a monthly fee (likely ~$20-30), you can stream all out-of-market games for your team. This is only for fans located in the team’s broadcast region. These apps are perfect for cord-cutters who want just their team.
- What it is: The NBA’s official out-of-market streaming service.
- For This Game: If you live outside of both Arizona and New York, NBA League Pass is your best legal option to watch the game live. It offers every out-of-market game.
- Important Blackout Note: Games on national TV (ESPN, TNT, ABC) and games broadcast on your local RSN are blacked out on League Pass. Since this is a high-profile matchup, check if it’s a national broadcast first. League Pass archives the game for on-demand viewing after it ends.
- Many of the live TV streaming services (YouTube TV, Hulu, Fubo, DIRECTV STREAM) include NBA TV in their base packages.
- NBA League Pass subscribers also get access to NBA TV.
Quick-Decision Flowchart
- Check the schedule on NBA or the team sites. Is the game on ESPN, TNT, ABC, or NBA TV?
- Yes โ Use a live TV streaming service (YouTube TV, Hulu, Sling) or log in to that network’s app.
- Do you live in Arizona or New York?
- Yes โ Look for a service carrying your RSN (Arizonaโs Family Sports or MSG) like DIRECTV STREAM or Fubo, or subscribe directly to the team’s streaming service (MSG+, Arizonaโs Family+).
- Are you a fan living outside both markets?
- Yes โ NBA League Pass is your simplest, most dedicated option.
Pro Tips for the 2026 Viewer
- Free Trials Are Your Friend: Most streaming services offer 5-7 day free trials. Time your sign-up to catch this marquee matchup.
- VPNs and Legality: Using a VPN to bypass blackouts on League Pass or to access an RSN service from outside your region violates the terms of service of these platforms. Stick to the legal geographic options.
- Antenna for ABC: If the game is on ABC, a simple, inexpensive digital antenna will give you a free, high-quality broadcast in 1080p HD if you’re within range of the local transmitter.