The Sacramento Kings and the Toronto Raptors battled in a close contest through most of the night, but it was their talented young players that led the way in a seven point victory on the road. It was the first road victory on the season for the Kings, who improved to 4-7 on the season.
The Kings were led by DeMarcus Cousins, who exploded for 21 points nad 19 rebounds against a small Raptor frontline. Cousins still had five turnovers, but it was a minor issue. Tyreke Evans also had a nice effort, compiling 29 points on 7 of 22 shooting but also made all 14 of his free throws.
But it was Isaiah Thomas who stole the show, knocking in six of 12 from the field and dishing out six assists on his way to a career-high of 20 points. The rookie from Washington might have proven that he has the mettle to be a solid point guard for his team, even if he isn't quite yet capable of handling starter's minutes.Sacramento was arguably a better team when Thomas was running the team in his minutes on the floor.
The Raptors got 24 points from Leandro Barbosa, and 13 points each from DeMar DeRozan and Jose Calderon, but Andrea Bargnani was held in check to 2 of 13 shooting.
To discuss the game with Kings fans, go to Sactown Royalty. To discuss the game with Raptors fans, head to Raptors HQ.