Kings Get Much Needed Win Over Raptors

Dec 5, 2012; Sacramento, CA, USA; Toronto Raptors shooting guard Mickael Pietrus (20) tries to bat away the ball against Sacramento Kings power forward James Johnson (52) during the fourth quarter at Sleep Train Arena. The Sacramento Kings defeated the Toronto Raptors 107-100. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

The Sacramento Kings beat the Toronto Raptors 107-100 tonight as they found a way to play team basketball. The starting lineup finally produced as it should, and the team played together. The Kings made passes and allowed the game come to them.

John Salmons was the key factor for Sacramento tonight; as he scored 12 points on 4-7 shooting, while dishing out 7 assists. Salmons was a leader on both sides of the floor tonight, and was the major factor in the Kings improved offensive floor. He has always been known as a more than capable defender, and was very tough defensively tonight.

DeMarcus Cousins finally had the all around game the Kings have been looking for this season. He scored 25 points on 11-18 shooting while grabbing 13 rebounds, 11 on the defensive end. Cousins only downfall was his 4 turnovers, as the big man was regularly double teamed early. Cousins eventually settled down in the second half, and finally allowed the game come to him.

Tyreke Evans had another outstanding outing as he 23 points. Tyreke didnt have the best field goal percentage, but only because the guard finally started to take open jump shots. Evans made two of his biggest shots late in a fourth quarter run as he made two consecutive three pointers to put the Kings ahead by 6 late.

Aaron Brooks continues to improve as he learns to run the offense and his teammates learn to trust him. Brooks showed that even during an off shooting night he is still capable of being a very big asset on the team. When Brooks and Salmons were on the floor, the Kings offense seemed to click, and at times be almost impressive. The Kings have shown flashes of this type of play at times throughout the season, but haven’t been able to find the consistency.

Mickael Pietrus and Kyle Lowery both had big games for the Raptors scoring a combined 55 points, but the Raptors were unable to capitalize. The Raptors shot 40.7% from the field for the game, but went 6-23 from beyond the three point arc, shooting 26.1%. The Kings had a far more efficient night from the field taking four less shots, but shot 46.3% from the field, and 40% from beyond the arc.

Sacramento plays Orlando onFriday and must be ready for a harder game, as the Magic have been a surprise in the East at 7-11. The Kings will need to look to take advantage of this game at home, as the next 11-16 games are on the road.