Cousins didn't score early, but again came up big late in the contest, scoring 16 of his 22 points in the second half. Chicago hung in the game deep into the closing minutes, but clutch shots from Cousins and Gay kept the Kings from another fourth quarter implosion. The two combined for 11 of the Kings last 15 points.

The Kings offense kept the ball moving most of the night, finishing with 26 assists on 38 made field goals. Head Coach Michael Malone was obviously more pleased with his offense, as the Kings shot 51.4% from the floor against a Bulls team that has held opponents to a 42.9% clip. Sacramento also forced the issue at the line, making 23 of 27 free throws while Chicago made 11 of 16.

Aside from Butler's 23 point performance, the Kings kept the Bulls offense in check as Chicago finished the game shooting 42.9%. The Bulls got off to a blistering start in the first quarter; Chicago sank five three pointers on route to 29 points in the period, but Sacramento's perimeter defense locked down after that and didn't allow another three the rest of the contest.

Noah nearly repeated his meltdown from last season—after picking up his fifth foul in the third quarter on a blatant flop by Cousins, Noah threw a 6 foot 11 inches sized tantrum and was called for a technical foul. It wasn't the best game for Noah, who struggled to defend Cousins in the second half, but he managed to avoid fouling out and did help the Bulls offense stay within striking distance.

The Kings finish off the three game homestand with a 2-1 record, and now head off for a four game road-trip with stops in Minnesota, New Orleans, Houston and San Antionio.

For the opponent's perspective, visit Blog a Bull.

Additional notes from the game: