By Jeff Hall

NEW ORLEANS ­–

Rudy Gay was out of the Kings lineup but Omri Casspi stepped into the starting role and scored 22 points filling in the necessary role for the Kings to lead the Kings to their third victory in a a row with A 99-89 win over the New Orleans Pelicans

Michael Malone was ejected in the second quarter after coming to mid-court to argue with official Eric Lewis. It was the first time Malone was ejected as a Kings head coach. The last Kings coach to be ejected from a game was Rick Adelman in the 2003 season

Former Kings player Tyreke Evans had 22 points, seven rebounds and five assist for New Orleans.

It was another strong defensive game for the Kings which was a primary key that led the Kings to victory.

New Orleans turned the ball over 11 times that the Kings turned into 17 points

It was another great game for Kings Center DeMarcus Cousins. Cousins scored 22 points and collected 12 rebounds.

Rudy Gay was held out because he I still struggling with a right Achilles tendon injury.

Next up, The Kings will be in Houston Wednesday to take on the Rockets.