The refs could have called any number of things: the missed personal foul on Conley, a travel on Gay, probably a foul on Prince, or nothing. And they called a jump ball with 1.9 seconds left.

Gay won the tip, but the Kings couldn't get the ball or a shot.

The bad calls mattered. But the Kings lost because they couldn't get the ball in the bucket late. Credit Memphis' defense and some pretty stagnant Sacramento offense for that.

Other notes:

* Jason Thompson did a helluva job against Zach Randolph. Z-Bo was held to 12 points. J.T. has been a totally different player the last couple of weeks, and I think that's played a role in the Kings' improved play.

* The Kings' point guard defense is still a problem. This is the only major flaw in Isaiah Thomas' game. Conley picked him apart, finishing with 25 points on 8-13 shooting. A shotblocker will help, but will it help enough?

* A really encouraging game for DeMarcus Cousins, despite shooting 6-20. Why? When he'd shoot that poorly in previous seasons, he'd end up with a 12-7 game or something. But because he's drawing fouls so regularly and keeping his composure, he finished with 22 and 17 in 40 minutes. Those free throws add up.

The Kings are back at it Sunday night in Oklahoma City. The road, ladies and gentlemen.