As with every edition, the NBA Canada Series 2026 promises world-class entertainment in Quebec. Scheduled for October 6, 2026, the event will once again take place in one of the country’s largest sports and cultural venues. The Toronto Raptors will face the Denver Nuggets in Vancouver.
NBA Canada Series 2026: Date and Location
Basketball fans from Quebec and beyond should already mark October 2026 on their calendars. The NBA will make a highly anticipated return to Vancouver for an unforgettable night at Rogers Arena. Known for its electric atmosphere, this iconic venue has always delivered an exceptional experience during previous NBA Canada Series games.
Following the success of past editions in 2014, 2015, 2016, 2018, 2019, 2023 and 2025, the NBA Canada Series 2026 in Vancouver will offer a rare chance to experience live NBA basketball without crossing the border. With its modern facilities and central location, Rogers Arena remains the ideal place to host a major international event. It will attract fans from across Quebec, Ontario, and even the northeastern United States.
This event confirms the NBA’s long-term commitment to its Canadian audience. The NBA Canada Series 2026 is set to be one of the most anticipated sporting events of the year in the province. It will offer a unique experience for basketball enthusiasts of all ages.
Ticket Prices for the NBA Canada Series 2026
The NBA Canada Series 2026 will bring basketball stars back to Vancouver in October 2026, featuring a highly anticipated preseason game at Rogers Arena. Following the success of previous editions, excitement is already building among fans across Quebec and Canada.
Although official ticket sales have not yet opened, prices are expected to follow a similar structure to past Montreal editions of the NBA Canada Series. Tickets are typically offered in several categories. There will be options for every budget — from courtside seats to upper-level stands. Here is an estimated price range based on recent editions:
| Category | Location | Estimated Price (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Courtside | Front row, right along the court | $700 – $900 |
| Lower Bowl – Premium | Side sections close to the action | $450 – $650 |
| Lower Bowl – Standard | Behind baskets or corner seating | $300 – $450 |
| Middle Level | Mid-tier seats with strong sightlines | $180 – $280 |
| Upper Bowl – Central | Upper level, mid-court view | $120 – $170 |
| Upper Bowl – Corners/Back Rows | Highest rows or limited-angle seats | $60 – $100 |
Final pricing may vary depending on the platform used for purchase (official ticketing or resale), seat availability, and added benefits like VIP access, club lounges, or suites. For the best prices and seating selection, fans are encouraged to act quickly once ticket sales go live.
Given the NBA Canada Series’ history of drawing fans from Vancouver, across Canada, and even the northeastern United States, ticket demand is expected to be exceptionally high. Whether you’re a lifelong Raptors supporter, a fan of another NBA franchise, or simply looking for a memorable night of elite basketball, the NBA Canada Series 2026 at the Rogers Arena promises something for everyone.
The History of the NBA Canada Series
Since its launch, the NBA Canada Series has played a key role in growing the game of basketball across the country. Through a series of preseason matchups held in cities from coast to coast, the league has brought NBA action to fans in Québec, British Columbia, Manitoba, Alberta, and Ontario. These events have not only showcased world-class talent, but also strengthened the NBA’s bond with Canadian basketball enthusiasts.
From packed arenas in Montreal to enthusiastic crowds in Vancouver and Winnipeg, each game in the NBA Canada Series has offered a unique and memorable experience. Here’s a detailed look at the matchups from 2012 to 2015.
New York Knicks vs. Toronto Raptors (October 19, 2012 – Montreal)
The inaugural NBA Canada Series game in Montreal marked a turning point for the league’s presence in Québec. Played at the Bell Centre, the matchup saw the Toronto Raptors dominate the New York Knicks 107–88 in front of a sold-out crowd. The Raptors, energized by local support, showcased an up-tempo style led by young talent and aggressive defence. This first game in Montreal set the tone for future editions, proving there was strong demand for NBA basketball in the province.
Detroit Pistons vs. Minnesota Timberwolves (October 24, 2012 – Winnipeg)
A few days later, the NBA brought its preseason showcase to the MTS Centre in Winnipeg. The Minnesota Timberwolves cruised to a 95–76 win over the Detroit Pistons in a game that highlighted the athleticism of Ricky Rubio and the inside dominance of Kevin Love. For many fans in Manitoba, this was their first opportunity to witness NBA-level basketball live — and they filled the arena with enthusiasm.
Boston Celtics vs. Minnesota Timberwolves (October 20, 2013 – Montreal)
The NBA returned to Montreal in 2013 with another highly anticipated clash at the Bell Centre. The Timberwolves once again impressed, defeating the Boston Celtics 104–89 in a game filled with pace and transition scoring. Fans saw Kevin Love and Nikola Peković control the paint, while the Celtics — then entering a rebuilding phase — showed flashes of potential through young players like Avery Bradley and Kelly Olynyk, a Canadian native who received warm applause.
Sacramento Kings vs. Toronto Raptors (October 5, 2014 – Vancouver)
The NBA Canada Series continued its westward expansion with a stop in Vancouver at Rogers Arena. In a competitive contest, the Toronto Raptors edged the Sacramento Kings 99–94, driven by key performances from DeMar DeRozan and Kyle Lowry. The Kings featured a promising core with DeMarcus Cousins and Rudy Gay, but Toronto’s cohesion and fan support tipped the balance. Vancouver fans responded with energy, reigniting discussions about the return of an NBA team to the city.
New York Knicks vs. Toronto Raptors (October 24, 2014 – Montreal)
Montreal once again hosted the NBA Canada Series as the Raptors and Knicks faced off in a gritty matchup. Toronto came away with an 86–80 victory, in a game that showcased defensive intensity on both sides. Terrence Ross stood out for the Raptors, while the Knicks struggled to find rhythm despite strong efforts from Carmelo Anthony. The crowd at the Bell Centre was vocal and engaged, reinforcing Montreal’s reputation as a basketball city.
Los Angeles Clippers vs. Toronto Raptors (October 4, 2015 – Vancouver)
Rogers Arena welcomed another edition of the NBA Canada Series in 2015, featuring a high-profile matchup between the Clippers and Raptors. Toronto secured a convincing 93–73 win over a Clippers team led by Chris Paul and Blake Griffin. The Raptors’ depth and defensive energy overwhelmed Los Angeles early, with Jonas Valančiūnas dominating inside. Vancouver’s response was emphatic, with fans turning out in large numbers and delivering a playoff-like atmosphere.
Chicago Bulls vs. Minnesota Timberwolves (October 10, 2015 – Winnipeg)
The NBA Canada Series returned to the MTS Centre in Winnipeg with an offensive showcase between the Bulls and Timberwolves. Chicago emerged victorious, 114–105, behind strong contributions from Jimmy Butler and Pau Gasol. The Timberwolves, led by Andrew Wiggins — playing in his home country — kept the game competitive throughout. The hometown crowd gave Wiggins a hero’s welcome, turning the evening into a celebration of Canadian basketball talent.
Toronto Raptors vs. Minnesota Timberwolves (October 14, 2015 – Ottawa)
In one of the most tightly contested games of the series, the Timberwolves narrowly defeated the Raptors 89–87 at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa. The game was a back-and-forth affair, with strong showings from Kyle Lowry and Andrew Wiggins. Fans in the nation’s capital enjoyed a rare live NBA experience, and the packed venue demonstrated that interest in the league extends far beyond Canada’s largest cities.
Washington Wizards vs. Toronto Raptors (October 23, 2015 – Montreal)
Montreal closed out the 2015 NBA Canada Series with a classic Eastern Conference clash between the Raptors and Wizards. Toronto took the win, 92–82, in front of another energetic Bell Centre crowd. DeMar DeRozan led the scoring for the Raptors, while John Wall tried to push Washington into a comeback. The fanfare surrounding the event once again demonstrated that Montreal remains one of the top cities in Canada for live NBA action.
Golden State Warriors vs. Toronto Raptors (October 1, 2016 – Vancouver)
The NBA Canada Series returned to Vancouver in 2016 with a highly anticipated matchup between the Golden State Warriors and the Toronto Raptors. In front of a packed Rogers Arena, the Raptors edged out the Warriors 97–93 in a tight preseason contest. Although Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson suited up, it was the Raptors’ balanced attack and stifling defence that stood out. Fans in Vancouver embraced the moment, with loud cheers and playoff-level energy throughout the game.
Denver Nuggets vs. Toronto Raptors (October 3, 2016 – Calgary)
Just two days later, Calgary hosted its first-ever NBA Canada Series game at the Scotiabank Saddledome. The Denver Nuggets narrowly defeated the Raptors 108–106 in a back-and-forth battle that went down to the wire. Jamal Murray, then a rookie and Calgary native, received a thunderous welcome from the Alberta crowd. His presence alone turned the game into a homecoming celebration and highlighted the rise of Canadian talent within the NBA ranks.
Portland Trail Blazers vs. Toronto Raptors (September 29, 2018 – Vancouver)
The 2018 NBA Canada Series tipped off with a commanding performance by the Raptors in Vancouver. Toronto defeated the Portland Trail Blazers 122–104 in a game that showcased their offensive firepower. Kawhi Leonard made his first unofficial appearance in a Raptors jersey, drawing massive attention. CJ McCollum and Damian Lillard led the charge for Portland, but the Raptors’ depth proved too much. Vancouver once again showed its love for the NBA, with a near-sellout crowd and a buzzing atmosphere.
Brooklyn Nets vs. Toronto Raptors (October 10, 2018 – Montreal)
Montreal played host to a dominant Raptors win as they dismantled the Brooklyn Nets 118–91 at the Bell Centre. Pascal Siakam impressed with his energy on both ends, while Kyle Lowry orchestrated the offence with efficiency. The Nets, still in rebuilding mode, struggled to keep pace. The game reaffirmed Montreal’s status as a reliable destination for the NBA Canada Series, with strong media attention and a sold-out arena.
Los Angeles Clippers vs. Dallas Mavericks (October 17, 2019 – Vancouver)
In a rare non-Raptors edition of the NBA Canada Series, fans in Vancouver witnessed an exciting clash between two rising Western Conference teams. The Dallas Mavericks defeated the Los Angeles Clippers 102–87 thanks to a standout performance by Luka Dončić. Although Kawhi Leonard did not suit up for the Clippers, the game still drew a strong crowd eager to watch the next generation of stars. The event showcased the broad appeal of NBA basketball beyond the homegrown Raptors.
Utah Jazz vs. Toronto Raptors (October 2, 2022 – Edmonton)
The NBA expanded its Canadian reach in 2022 with a first-ever game in Edmonton, held at Rogers Place. The Toronto Raptors delivered a resounding 114–82 win over the Utah Jazz, with Scottie Barnes and Fred VanVleet leading the way. Jazz fans had the chance to see Collin Sexton in a new role, but Utah couldn’t contain Toronto’s transition game. The Alberta crowd was vocal and engaged throughout, confirming the growing basketball interest across western Canada.
Boston Celtics vs. Toronto Raptors (October 14, 2022 – Montreal)
Montreal once again hosted one of the most thrilling games in NBA Canada Series history. In an overtime showdown, the Raptors defeated the Boston Celtics 137–134 in a high-scoring battle. Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown were electric for Boston, but the Raptors countered with strong play from OG Anunoby and Gary Trent Jr. The atmosphere at the Bell Centre was electric, offering fans a postseason-calibre experience and proving that Montreal could one day support its own NBA franchise.
Sacramento Kings vs. Toronto Raptors (October 8, 2023 – Vancouver)
The 2023 edition of the NBA Canada Series kicked off in Vancouver with the Raptors earning a 112–99 win over the Sacramento Kings. Domantas Sabonis and De’Aaron Fox led a talented Kings squad, but the Raptors’ defensive intensity set the tone early. Jakob Poeltl made his presence felt in the paint, while fans at Rogers Arena showed unwavering support. Once again, Vancouver delivered a full house and a vibrant game-night atmosphere.
Detroit Pistons vs. Oklahoma City Thunder (October 12, 2023 – Montreal)
Montreal welcomed a neutral-site clash between two young, rebuilding teams. In a fast-paced and entertaining game, the Detroit Pistons edged out the Oklahoma City Thunder 128–125. Cade Cunningham shone with his playmaking, while Shai Gilgeous-Alexander — a Canadian fan favourite — delivered a strong performance for OKC. The game drew an enthusiastic crowd, offering fans a fresh look at the NBA’s next generation of stars.
Washington Wizards vs. Toronto Raptors (October 6, 2024 – Montreal)
The latest chapter of the NBA Canada Series returned to Montreal in 2024 with a familiar matchup. The Raptors dominated the Washington Wizards 125–98 in front of a passionate crowd at the Bell Centre. RJ Barrett, playing in his home province, received thunderous ovations and didn’t disappoint, while Scottie Barnes put on a two-way clinic. The game was a celebration of Canadian talent and another clear sign that the appetite for NBA basketball in Montréal is stronger than ever.
Toronto Raptors vs Denver Nuggets (October 6, 2025 – Vancouver)
On October 6, 2025, Vancouver will host a highly anticipated clash between two teams with strong Canadian ties. The Toronto Raptors will face the Denver Nuggets in a preseason game at Rogers Arena. This will mark the 20th game of the NBA Canada Series since 2012, and the 15th for Toronto.
The Raptors roster features Scottie Barnes, Brandon Ingram, Collin Murray-Boyles, along with Canadian players RJ Barrett and A.J. Lawson. The Nuggets rely on three-time MVP Nikola Jokić, Jamal Murray, Aaron Gordon, and Cam Johnson. Canadian Jamal Murray will be returning home to play in front of his local fans.
This game highlights the rise of Canadian basketball, driven by star players and growing enthusiasm on the West Coast. Vancouver fans will have the chance to witness a high-level spectacle showcasing both the new generation and Canada’s NBA tradition.