The Dave Joerger-era with the Sacramento Kings got underway with a 113-94 win at the Phoenix Suns.

Joerger replaced George Karl, who had a tenuous relationship with DeMarcus Cousins.

“I like him and he likes me,” Cousins said of Joerger.

“Joerger’s been great,” Cousins said. “I think what he brought to the team is what this team needed. It fits our identity more than how we played in the past. Not to knock any of the previous situations but I think this situation fits this team the best.”

Joerger said he hasn’t done anything out of character to try to connect with Cousins.

“I didn’t really do anything special other than try to be yourself,” Joerger said. “I think if you try to be somebody else that’s always a problem. Players can always see right through that so just be yourself, what you’re trying to do, how we’re trying to build it for the future of our team this season and going out for future years."