By Richard Kagan

The Chicago Bulls had a new look versus the Philadelphia 76ers. The game was a thriller, but the last two points were made by Ben Simmons, who made two free-throws with just under six seconds to play, giving Philly a 116-115 lead.

The Bulls had the last shot and reserve forward Bobby Portis, who scored a career high 38 points, almost made it but didn’t, and the Baby Bulls lost a real close one.

Portis came off the bench and was hot, hitting six of nine treys and making shots that superstars make. David Nwaba scored 21 points with his hustle and great energy. Zach LaVine had 23 points in the losing effort. The Bulls made 18 of 34 three-point shots and that kept the team in the game.

The 76ers came back down five points with a minute to play to take the game away from the Bulls. Joel Embiid had a very big game, scoring 30 points and hauling in 13 boards. The young 76ers beat the very youthful Bulls in a squeaker at the United Center.

Notably, Lauri Markkanen shot one for eight from the floor, and G Kris Dunn only added 5 points. New starter Cristiano Felicio scored only five points. It is tough to win when three of your starters score a combined 13 points.

Bobby Portis had himself quite a night. He was hot most of the night, making shots usually reserved for a star like Jimmy Butler.

If Dunn and Markkanen can have solid games, we may have something. But it is tough to see Ben Simmons come through on your home court. And, tonight, he had the scoring touch.

Cameron Payne came off the bench and played back-up point guard. Jerian Grant did not see action.