Philadelphia 76ersOpen full analysis
Chicago BullsOpen full analysis
The Chicago Bulls defeated the Philadelphia 76ers 109–102 on December 26 at the United Center, holding the visitors below the Vegas total of 241.5 points in a defensive grind. Zach Collins and Jevon Carter each scored 15 points for Chicago, while Joel Embiid led Philadelphia with 31 points and Tyrese Maxey added 27, yet the 76ers' 37.6% shooting from the field proved insufficient. The Bulls made 14 three-pointers compared to Philadelphia's 11 and controlled the glass with 52 rebounds to 46, though both teams struggled offensively—Chicago shot 44.2% and posted a 113.5 offensive rating. The decisive stretch came in the fourth quarter, when Philadelphia managed only 17 points after scoring 33 in the third; Chicago's 28 fourth-quarter points sealed the outcome. Philadelphia's seven steals couldn't overcome a 31-assist performance by the Bulls, who limited turnovers to 11. The loss drops the 76ers further in the Eastern Conference playoff picture despite Embiid's scoring prowess.
