The Sixers lost again. The end is near.

Probably not. But with the 119-98 loss to the Magic sans Ben Simmons, the “Fire Brett Brown” crew is back out. But again, this team didn’t have Ben Simmons. TJ McConnell started and finished with two points, two assists, and six rebounds. He’s not Ben Simmons.

Joel Embiid was the only Sixer with 20 points and also finished with 10 boards. Tobias Harris and Jimmy Butler were the other starters with more than 10 points. The other? Shake Milton, who scored 13 with a rebound. He could definitely give a big boost to the bench.

Zhaire Smith also got some time and his first bucket, a three-pointer. Some good developments there despite the loss.

Up next is a Thursday night date with the Brooklyn Nets, which could be a “clutch win.” The Nets could also be a potential first round opponent. Here’s how the standings look:

The Roundup:

The Phillies ended Spring Training with a bang. A walk-off home run, thanks to Malvin Matos. Opening Day is Thursday afternoon, which is two days away.

Bryce Harper and Rhys Hoskins should expect to see some four-man outfields this season.

Speaking of Harper, NBC Sports Philadelphia will air a Harper documentary tonight.

Howie Roseman says signing Carson Wentz to an extension is his top priority. He also said there’s plenty of time to get a running back.

The Flyers don’t play until tomorrow night, but they did sign 2018 first round pick Joel Farabee to an entry-level deal.

Philly will be the first city in North America with an Esports arena built from the ground up.

Kyle made a video for the Villanova loss.

In other sports news, did Conor McGregor retire? Maybe.

The Mets and Jacob deGrom agreed to a massive extension.

deGrom’s teammate Noah Syndergaard isn’t a fan of going to Syracuse. They also had their plane delayed. And their workout is in the Carrier Dome, not their Triple-A team’s ballpark.

Bears-Packers will kick off the NFL’s 100th season.

In the news, Pennridge School Board votes to hire armed guards.

Michael Avenatti was arrested in an alleged Nike extortion scheme.