How to watch the NBA Playoffs

NBA Playoff channels

The NBA playoffs will air on ESPN, TNT, NBA TV and ABC. Here's how to watch, without cable. 

*Local channels available only in select locations

Playoff Schedule

• April 20-21: First round starts
• May 4-7: Second round starts
• May 19-22: Conference Finals start
• June 6: NBA Finals Game 1
• June 23: NBA Finals Game 7 (if necessary)

Watch the Playoffs on DIRECTV STREAM

DIRECTV STREAM has several packages to choose from, starting with the Entertainment package with over 90 channels. ABC, ESPN and TNT are included in every package. NBA TV is included in the Choice package and above. DIRECTV STREAM is also one of the few services to offer a full lineup of regional sports networks (RSNs) in addition to local channels, giving subscribers everything they need to keep up with their favorite NBA teams all season long. DIRECTV STREAM has a five-day free trial for new customers. 

Watch the Playoffs on Fubo

Fubo is a sports-focused streaming service with three plans to choose from. While every plan includes ABC and ESPN in its channel lineup, Fubo is missing TNT, so you won't be able to watch some games. To watch NBA TV, you'll need to upgrade to Elite or pay the additional monthly fee for add-on that includes it, like Sports Plus with NFL RedZone. Similar to DIRECTV STREAM, Fubo also has a full list of RSNs available, making it easy to keep up with games that aren't nationally aired during the season. The streaming service offers a seven-day free trial. 

Watch the Playoffs on Hulu + Live TV

With Hulu + Live TV, you'll get ABC, ESPN and TNT in the  95+ channel lineup. Hulu + Live TV subscribers also get access to ESPN Plus for more sports coverage. Subscribers have the option of adding even more sports channels to their plan with the Sports Extra which includes NFL RedZone and more. Hulu + Live TV now has a three-day free trial to test the service out before committing to a monthly subscription.

Watch the Playoffs on Sling TV 

Sling TV is an affordable live TV streaming service that has some of the channels you'll want for the Playoffs. Sling Orange. It includes both ESPN and TNT in its 32-channel lineup. For an extended channel lineup, you can also opt for the Sling Orange & Blue plan which includes every channel from both the Orange and Blue plans.

Sling customers can also add the Sports Extra package to get more sports coverage, including NBA TV. New Sling TV subscribers can get typically get a discount during their first month of service.

Watch the Playoffs on YouTube TV

YouTube TV has over 100 channels. That lineup includes ABC, ESPN, TNT and NBA TV, allowing subscribers to catch all the playoff action. YouTube TV also has features that allow fans to see stats, key plays, and live scores on demand for any game. Try YouTube TV out with a five-day free trial.

FAQ

When does the second round of the playoffs start?

The second round is set to begin on May 6-7 but could be moved up to May 4-5, depending on when the first round ends.

What channels are the NBA playoffs on?

The games will be on ABC, ESPN, TNT and NBA TV.

Does NBA League Pass air the playoffs?

No, games will not air on League Pass.