Chicago Bulls vs. Detroit Pistons presents entertaining matchups

Bobby Portis vs. Blake Griffin

Because of Markkanen’s absence, someone had to take the job as Chicago’s starting power forward. Originally, most thought it would end up being Jabari Parker, who was set to play small forward. Through the preseason, though, it was Bobby Portis who outplayed Parker and earned the starting nod.

In the Bulls’ loss to Philadelphia, Portis notched 20 points, 11 rebounds and a trio of assists. He was flat-out impressive, especially pouring in 13 points on 6-for-6 shooting in the first quarter.

Meanwhile, Blake Griffin had himself a night for the Pistons in his first game as well. Griffin finished with 26 points, eight rebounds and an impressive six assists for the Pistons, who came out on top by three over the Nets.

Griffin even knocked down a triple at one point, which is something Portis has become much more comfortable doing over his three years. While Griffin may be a bit stronger, it’s Portis who will match with the intensity.

As Griffin shows he is not the same guy he once was (as displayed by the odd-looking instances he’s been stuffed in the last year or so) due to some unfortunate injuries, Portis has his chance to assert himself in this one.

Portis is a guy who will move all over the floor, while Griffin is still more of an inside-first presence. These two will be fun to watch and I’m certain we will see one or two fiery moments between them.