Key Highlights
- The 2025-26 regular season is only two weeks old.
- Both the 76ers and Bulls have a 5-1 record to start the campaign.
- Matas Buzelis of the Bulls has been averaging 15.7 points per game.
- VJ Edgecombe, a rookie for the 76ers, is averaging 20.3 points per game.
The Rivalry: Philadelphia 76ers vs. Chicago Bulls
On Tuesday at the United Center in Chicago, the Philadelphia 76ers will face the Chicago Bulls in a highly anticipated matchup of Eastern Conference rivals. This game marks the first half of a back-to-back set for both teams and is part of the NBA’s League Pass programming.
A High-Stakes Start to the Season
Both teams have begun their 2025-26 season on strong footing, with each holding a perfect record in five games. The Bulls’ lone defeat came against the New York Knicks on November 2, while the 76ers suffered their only loss to the Boston Celtics on October 31.
The 76ers have been particularly impressive away from home, boasting a 3-0 record with wins over the Celtics, Wizards, and Nets. The Bulls, in contrast, are unbeaten at home this season but have shown vulnerability by losing their first game of the season to New York. However, they remain undefeated on their own turf.
Young Talent on Display
The game promises to be a showcase for two promising young players: VJ Edgecombe of the 76ers and Matas Buzelis of the Bulls. Edgecombe, a rookie out of Baylor, has quickly secured a starting role next to Tyrese Maxey in the backcourt and is averaging an impressive 20.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game.
Buzelis, who has been playing for the Bulls since last season, has become a key offensive player after averaging 15.7 points per game with a shooting percentage of 41.4% from deep. Both players will be crucial in determining which team emerges victorious on Tuesday evening.
Joel Embiid’s Availability
The presence or absence of Joel Embiid, the star big man for the 76ers, could heavily influence the outcome of this game. Embiid missed Sunday’s win over the Nets due to injury recovery and has been cautious with his health early in the season.
His availability is uncertain but likely, given that he will be playing the first half of a back-to-back set. Even if he does not start, his presence on the bench could provide significant boost for the 76ers. Embiid is currently averaging 17.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game in four outings this season.
Historical Matchup
The two teams have a history of regular matchups within the Eastern Conference. Over the past three seasons, they have gone 2-2 against each other twice, with only one exception being the 2023-24 season when Chicago went 2-1.
Interestingly, the 76ers tend to perform well at the United Center, where they have won nine of their last ten visits. Six of those victories came by double-digit margins, indicating that home court advantage could be a significant factor in this game.
A Look Ahead
This matchup is part of Week 3’s best matchups on NBA League Pass. Other notable games include the Atlanta Hawks vs. Golden State Warriors and the Miami Heat vs.
Brooklyn Nets. Fans can tune into these exciting contests to witness some of the league’s top talent in action.
Conclusion
The Philadelphia 76ers and Chicago Bulls are set for a thrilling showdown, with both teams aiming to maintain their early-season momentum. The game offers an opportunity for young stars VJ Edgecombe and Matas Buzelis to prove themselves as well as Joel Embiid to make his presence felt. This match promises to be a must-watch event in the NBA’s 2025-26 season.
