Hickson steps up big: With LaMarcus Aldridge out indefinitely after an "abnormality" was discovered in an MRI on his hip, the Trail Blazers turned to forward J.J. Hickson on Wednesday in the starting lineup against the Warriors. Hickson stepped up when called up, scoring 23 points and grabbing 13 rebounds as the Blazers took down the Warriors, 118-110. Hickson did not lead the team in either points or rebounds, however he was rock solid all game long for the team, as he stepped into Aldridge’s role as the go-to guy. He also added three assists and a block. (Updated 04/12/2012)
Injury Report
No information available at this time (Updated 5/25/12).
Fantasy Analysis
If Aldridge remains out indefinitely, this is going to be a huge opportunity for Hickson, who remains skilled offensively and who has thrived as a go-to option in the past. The Blazers love to run their offense through the power forward, so Hickson should not have any trouble picking up touches. The big man has been revitalized since coming to Portland, as he is averaging 14.1 points and 7.1 rebounds per game in 12 games with the Blazers. Those numbers are reminiscent of what he did with Cleveland last year, so this does not seem like a fluke. He should be considered a solid starting option in all formats as long as Alridge is injured. (Updated 04/12/2012).
04/15/2012 21:08 Thornton hits game-winner for Kings
Marcus Thornton scored 20 points and made the winning jumper with 3.2 seconds left, lifting the Sacramento Kings to a 104-103 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday night.
04/04/2012 09:21 Waiver Wire: Who can help bring a title?
For many leagues it all comes down to the next week. Whch available players will help you just enough to secure a title in your league? Our Ed Gauna is here to help with his look at the waiver wire.
04/03/2012 00:38 Millsap scores 31 in Jazz's victory
Paul Millsap had 31 points, including a go-ahead dunk with 1:11 left, and pulled down 11 rebounds to help the Utah Jazz snap a three-game losing streak with a 102-97 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers on Monday night.
04/02/2012 10:12 Week 15 Start 'Em and Sit 'Em
J.J. Hickson has never really delivered on his potential, in part due to him being a defensive liability. However, as our Chris Towers writes, his could provide an offensive spark for both the Blazers and owners.
04/02/2012 05:02 Courtside Seat: Can Bargnani still help you?
Need some postseason assistance? Our Jamey Eisenberg takes a look at some guys who may or may not be helpful for Fantasy owners heading into the playoffs.
In a surprise draft day move, J.J. Hickson was traded from Cleveland to Sacramento. He leaves a Cleveland team desperate for go-to options in the midst of the post-LeBron era to enter one of the more crowded frontcourt situations in the NBA. In Sacramento, he'll be part of a rotation that includes DeMarcus Cousins and Jason Thompson, though we anticipate Hickson should get a majority of the playing time alongside Cousins. With a back court that features capable scorers like Tyreke Evans, Marcus Thornton and even rookie Jimmer Fredette, there may not be enough offensive touches to go around for Hickson to match the 13.8 points per game he averaged with Cleveland last season. He might also find it hard to match the 8.7 rebounds per game he averaged for the Cavs, but remains a promising young forward in a much more wide-open system than the one he played in with Cleveland. He'll be a safe pick beginning in Round 10 in standard formats. (Updated 8/28/11)
