News: Trail Blazers center J.J. Hickson was able to get back on the court for Friday's contest against the Thunder. Hickson, who was forced to miss Portland's loss to the Lakers on Wednesday due to a sore lower back, finished with seven points and seven rebounds in the 106-90 defeat. He went 3 of 5 from the field and also added one steal to his stat line.
Analysis: Hickson has been productive for the Trail Blazers, but he is out of position at center. He is averaging 12.9 points and 10.6 rebounds per game on the season, and remains a serious defensive liability. Fantasy owners do not care much for his defensive issues, but it might make it tougher for him to find the right landing spot in free agency. Hickson's free agency will be interesting to monitor, as he might have trouble finding a spot in someone's starting lineup if Portland is not willing to bring him back. He remains a solid Fantasy option when healthy.
News: Trail Blazers center JJ Hickson was forced to sit out Wednesday's game against the Lakers, due to a sore lower back. It is not clear when Hickson suffered the injury, or how long he is expected to sit out. Meyers Leonard received the start in Hickson's place.
Analysis: This is interesting timing for an injury for Hickson, as Blazers' general manager Neil Olshey told reporters Wednesday that the team does not expect to bring Hickson back as a free agent this offseason. If Hickson's days with the team are numbered, there is little reason for them to give him minutes with a lottery pick backing him up. We will keep an eye on Hickson's status moving forward, as he remains a solid Fantasy option, when healthy and active.
News: The Trail Blazers have gotten solid production out of center JJ Hickson on his one-year deal this season, but it is no secret that both sides want more than they have gotten out of the relationship. Hickson wants money and a role that better suits his abilities, and the Trail Blazers want someone who plays defense. As a result, it is no surprise that general manager Neil Olshey told The Oregonian Tuesday that the team does not expect Hickson to return. “For us to make a jump next season, JJ can’t be our starting center,’’ Olshey said. “I’m not saying he can’t be part of the roster. But we need to find a starting-caliber center who protects the rim and gets defensive rebounds at a high rate and that has a presence. And we have to do a better job at defending the paint. So you have to ask: Is it likely there is enough minutes to commit the kind of dollars JJ will command, when clearly there are other positions that need to be upgraded? Probably not.’’ Hickson is a large part of why the team is allowing 47.4 points per game in the pain, a league high.
Analysis: Hickson has been productive for the Trail Blazers, but he is out of position at center. He is averaging 12.9 points and 10.6 rebounds per game on the season, and remains a serious defensive liability. Fantasy owners do not care much for his defensive issues, but it might make it tougher for him to find the right landing spot in free agency. Hickson's free agency will be interesting to monitor, as he might have trouble finding a spot in someone's starting lineup if Portland is not willing to bring him back. He remains a solid Fantasy option through the final week of the season, but might be a risky pickup next season.
News: Trail Blazers center JJ Hickson earned his fourth start of the year at power forward during Friday's contest against the Jazz. Hickson, who was listed as a game-time decision entering the contest due to an illness, finished with 17 points and 14 rebounds in the 105-95 defeat. He went 8 of 11 from the field and also added two assists to his stat line, while logging 36 minutes of game action.
Analysis: Hickson could wind up playing forward for the next few games as LaMarcus Aldridge is expected to miss some time with his ankle injury. This news shouldn't concern Fantasy owners much as Hickson has produced at both forward and center this season. The 24-year-old is averaging 10.4 points and 11.2 rebounds over his last five games, making him a high-end option in all formats when healthy.
News: The Oregonian reports Friday that Portland forward J.J. Hickson is questionable for Friday's game against Utah with an illness. Hickson is still listed as a probable starter.
Analysis: Fantasy owners should check back prior to Friday's game to see if Hickson is able to play against the Jazz. When healthy and active, Hickson is a must-start Fantasy option in the majority of leagues.
News: Portland power forward J.J. Hickson has done a solid job on the boards of late and that trend continued on Saturday night against Detroit. He hauled in 15 points -- including five on the offensive glass -- and scored 18 points in the 112-101 win. He went 7 for 14 from the field and made 4 of 5 free throws while playing 33 minutes. Hickson also chipped in with two assists and two steals in the victory.
Analysis: Hickson has enjoyed a career campaign in his first full season in Portland as he is averaging a double-double for the year. He entered Saturday averaging 12.6 rebounds in the previous five contests and continues to score in the low teens on a consistent basis. The 24-year-old remains a solid option in the majority of Fantasy formats.
News: Trail Blazers center J.J. Hickson enjoyed another quality performance as he notched his 35th double-double of the season Sunday night against the Hornets. Hickson went 6 of 12 shooting from the field and 2 of 2 from the free throw line. He scored 10 in the first quarter and finished with 14 points and 14 boards in a 98-96 defeat. He also chipped in with three steals, an assist and a blocked shot while logging 36 minutes of game action.
Analysis: Hickson has been a double-double machine as of late, as he has scored at least 10 points and grabbed at least 10 rebounds in eight of the last nine games, averaging 17.6 points and 12.7 boards over that span. He has been one of the most consistent guys to protect the glass this season, so continue to roll with him in all formats heading into Week 20 (March 11-17).
News: Portland power forward J.J. Hickson recorded a double-double on Wednesday night during a loss at Memphis. Hickson scored 12 points on 6 of 12 shooting over 31 minutes and added 13 rebounds. He also blocked two shots and added a steal.
Analysis: Hickson has recorded double-doubles in five of his last six games as he continues to play extremely well for the Blazers. Fantasy owners can be starting him in just about all formats across the board.
News: Portland center J.J. Hickson recorded a double-double on Wednesday during a loss to the Nuggets. Hickson grabbed 14 rebounds and scored 18 points in the defeat over 32 minutes. He shot 5 of 9 from the field and went 8 of 9 from the line. Hickson assisted two scores and added a steal as well.
Analysis: Hickson is up to four consecutive double-doubles and he's averaging one per game this season. That is all the reason Fantasy owners should need to have him starting in all formats.
News: Yahoo.com reported Tuesday that the Trail Blazers are looking to move center J.J. Hickson before Thursday’s trade deadline, however have yet to find a compelling enough offer to move the free-agent to be. He did nothing to hurt his trade value in that night’s game, scoring a team-high 25 points on 10 of 14 shooting over 39 minutes against the Suns. He added 16 rebounds in the game as well, in a 102-98 loss.
Analysis: The Trail Blazers invested a lottery pick in a young center this season, so while Hickson’s emergence has helped keep them competitive, it has done nothing for their long-term plan. Hickson has played a big role for the Blazers due to their lack of depth, so a trade could actually work out poorly for him. Still, this is a player who is averaging 12.7 points and 10.3 rebounds per game on the season, so a trade is unlikely to affect his Fantasy value much. Continue to consider him a solid starting option in all formats.
News: Trail Blazers forward J.J. Hickson, who sprained his ankle his last time out, was unable to make much of an impact during Tuesday's contest against the Heat. Hickson barely shot the ball as he went 2 of 3 shooting from the field and 1 of 1 from the free throw line as he finished with just five points and a steal while logging 13 minutes of game action in a 117-104 defeat.
Analysis: Hickson did not look like his old self Tuesday night as he was held to under 15 minutes of game action for the first time since early January. Though he has enjoyed one of the finer campaigns of his career in his first full season in Portland, the 24-year-old has only averaged 8.0 points and 3.5 rebounds over his last two games. Hickson has shown that he can be a bit inconsistent at times, so consider him a decent option in the majority of Fantasy formats for now.
News: Portland ower forward J.J. Hickson continued his recent hot shooting ways on Wednesday night against Dallas. He scored 14 points on 5-of-9 shooting in the 105-99 loss. He also went 4 for 5 from the charity stripe while playing 33 minutes. Hickson posted 10 rebounds and a steal in the defeat.
Analysis: Hickson has enjoyed one of the finer campaigns of his career in his first full season in Portland as he continues to average a double-double. He has been ever better of late as he is shooting 62 percent in the previous five contests while putting up 16 points, 10.2 rebounds and a block over that span. The 24-year-old can be inconsistent with his scoring at times but remains a solid option in the majority of Fantasy formats.
News: Trail Blazers power forward J.J. Hickson has gotten his shooting percentage up of late and had another productive night from the floor Sunday against the Clippers. He scored 15 points on 5-of-9 shooting in the 96-83 loss. He also went 5 for 8 from the charity stripe while playing 31 minutes. Hickson posted nine rebounds, an assist, a steal and a block in the defeat.
Analysis: Hickson has enjoyed a resurgent campaign in his first full season in Portland and has been able to pick up his scoring of late. He is averaging 15 points with 9.4 rebounds in the previous five contests on 61 percent shooting. The 24-year-old continues to average a double-double for the year and remains a solid option in the majority of Fantasy formats.
News: Portland power forward J.J. Hickson had another fine performance on Saturday in a game against Milwaukee. Hickson played just 24 minutes in the game and still managed to score 15 points with 12 rebounds for the double-double. He was 5 of 10 from the field and added a block and a steal in the losing effort.
Analysis: Hickson has three consecutive double-doubles under his belt and is averaging 12.2 points and 11.4 rebounds per game over his last five. Considering that is pretty close to what he's been dropping per game on the season, we'd say Hickson has remained consistent. Fantasy owners can continue to keep him active across the board.
News: Portland power forward J.J. Hickson had another productive night on the boards Wednesday against Cleveland. He scored 13 points and hauled in 11 rebounds -- with four coming on the offensive glass -- in the 93-88 loss. He went 5 for 8 from the field, missing his lone attempt from downtown, and made 3 of 6 free throws. Hickson also posted an assist, a steal and a block while playing 31 minutes.
Analysis: Hickson has played well while serving as the center for the Trail Blazers as is averaging a double-double for the year. He is putting up 10.8 points with 11 rebounds and a block in the previous five games while shooting 48 percent during that stretch. The 24-year-old doesn't always put up the most consistent scoring but Hickson remains a viable option in the majority of Fantasy formats.
News: Trail Blazers power forward J.J. Hickson did not get many scoring opportunities as he flirted with a double-double during Friday's contest against the Warriors. Hickson was held to just seven points on 2 of 5 shooting and converted 3 of 4 free throws in a 103-97 defeat. He also chipped in with 12 rebounds, two assists and a blocked shot while logging 21 minutes of game action.
Analysis: Hickson is enjoying a resurgent campaign in his first full season in Portland but has been mired in a mini-slump as of late, averaging just 7.5 points on 31.3 percent shooting over his last two games. He has also been held to single-digit scoring in four of his last eight games thus far. Hickson was a double-double machine before his scoring drought but should still be viewed as a solid option in majority of Fantasy formats heading into Week 12 (Jan. 14-20).
News: After scoring just two points his last time out, Trail Blazers power forward J.J. Hickson got back on track Friday against the Grizzlies. He scored 19 points and hauled in 11 rebounds in the 86-84 win. He went 7 for 13 from the field and made 5 of 8 free throws while playing 37 minutes. Hickson also posted two blocks, one steal and one assist in the victory.
Analysis: Hickson has enjoyed a resurgent campaign in his first full season in Portland and continues to average a double-double while see the majority of his playing time at center. He is averaging 11.4 points with 9.6 rebounds in his last five games but has a couple of poor performances during that stretch. The 24-year-old has returned to the good graces of owners and should remain active in the majority of Fantasy formats.
News: Trail Blazers forward J.J. Hickson picked up his 18th double-double of the season during Saturday's contest against the 76ers. Hickson scored 16 points on 7 of 11 shooting from the field and grabbed 13 rebounds in a 89-85 victory. He also added two steals and an assist in 34 minutes of game action.
Analysis: Hickson has been a double-double machine this season as he has reached that feat in all but 11 of the team's first 29 games this season, which is on pace to shatter his career-high mark set with the Cavaliers in 2010-11. He is averaging 13.6 points per game and 11 rebounds a night in December, despite averaging just 28 minutes on the floor. His role has jumped around at times this season, but it is hard to justify taking him out of the rotation at this point. The 24-year-old has emerged as a strong starting option in all formats heading into Week 10 (Dec. 31-Jan. 6).
News: For the sixth game in a row, Trail Blazers forward J.J. Hickson picked up a double-double Thursday against the Nuggets, in 101-93 win. Hickson grabbed 18 rebounds and scored 18 points in 34 minutes, while shooting 7 of 16 from the field. He added three blocks, while turning the ball over just once. He now has six double-doubles in eight games in the month of December.
Analysis: Hickson has been playing like a man possessed recently, averaging 16.3 points and 14.0 rebounds per game over the last six contests, despite averaging just 28.3 minutes per game. His role has jumped around at times this season, but it is hard to justify taking him out of the rotation at this point. And the same goes for your Fantasy lineups, where Hickson has emerged as a strong starting option in all formats with his recent play.
News: Trail Blazers forward J.J. Hickson posted his third straight double-double as he recorded 16 points and 11 rebounds during Portland's 92-74 win over Toronto on Monday night. Hickson finished a glossy 7 of 7 from the field -- the second perfect outing of his career (minimum five shot attempts) -- and 2 of 3 at the free-throw line to record his highest point output since Nov. 25 at Brooklyn (19). He also added a steal in 23 minutes.
Analysis: Hickson has thrived in the middle of the paint for the Blazers and has already recorded 11 double-doubles in 20 games this season. He registered only nine such performances in 54 total games between Portland and Sacramento last year. Hickson has steadied his scoring with Portland and is averaging a solid 55.2 percent from the field. Fantasy owners should activate him in all formats while he's rolling.
News: Portland power forward J.J. Hickson recorded a double-double on Wednesday night in Indiana as the Blazers dropped the game to the Pacers. Hickson scored 14 points and grabbed 12 rebounds over 26 minutes on the court. He shot 7 of 12 from the field and chipped in with one assist.
Analysis: Hickson played only 12 minutes at Charlotte in his last game as he struggled to score and was even worse on the rebounding end. He failed to get a single board during his time on the court and was pulled. Hickson was much better Wednesday and is actually averaging 10 rebounds per game on the year. Sometimes a liability causing him to see less than 30 minutes per game, Hickson can still be active in most Fantasy formats.
News: Portland power forward J.J. Hickson had himself an excellent performance on Wednesday night in a loss at Washington. The Wizards pulled out their first win of the year but it wasn't for Hickson's effort. He recorded a double-double with 15 points and 19 rebounds. His jumper didn't go down as time expired but he finished 6 for 8 from the field in the game with a block, two assists and a steal.
Analysis: Hickson has three double-doubles in his last four games for Portland and is averaging one on the season. He's playing consistently well right now and should be active in just about all Fantasy formats.
News: Portland power forward J.J. Hickson returned to action Friday night against Minnesota after sitting out the previous game due to an injury to his left shoulder. He scored 14 points and hauled in 13 rebounds in the 103-95 win. He went 6 for 10 from the floor and made 2 of 4 free throws while playing 31 minutes. Hickson also chipped in with four assists, two blocks and a steal in the victory.
Analysis: Hickson continues to start at center for the Trail Blazers and is having a bounce-back campaign thus far. He is averaging 9.3 points with 9.3 rebounds in the previous four contests and is shooting nearly 57 percent over that span. Hickson should put up numbers similar to what he posted in Cleveland in 2010-11 so continue to view the 24-year-old as a viable option in most Fantasy formats.
News: Portland power forward J.J. Hickson suffered a slight injury to his left shoulder in the team's last game Sunday, reports CSNNW.com Wednesday. Hickson could not suit up and play Wednesday at Phoenix. The shoulder injury is not considered serious, however. He is day to day.
Analysis: Hickson should be completely over this shoulder issue in a few days. He has been playing well for the Blazers with three double-doubles in his previous five games played. Actually averaging a double-double per game on the year, Hickson should remain active in the majority of Fantasy formats.
News: Portland center J.J. Hickson put up a pretty nice double-double in a loss to the Hawks Monday night. Hickson scored 19 points and grabbed 18 rebounds over 33 minutes. He went 8 for 14 from the field and added two steals and a blocked shot in the losing effort for the Blazers.
Analysis: The 24-year-old Hickson could be breaking out right now with back-to-back double-doubles. In fact, he's averaging a double-double per game right now for Portland. If he could score just a little more consistently he'd become a Fantasy stud. Regardless, you should be starting Hickson right now.
News: Trailblazers forward J.J. Hickson failed to score in double digits for the third game in a row Thursday against the Clippers. Hickson was limited to five points on 2 of 4 shooting in the game, while playing just 23 minutes. He grabbed five rebounds and blocked a shot in a 103-90 loss.
Analysis: Hickson started the season off well, posting 13 and then 14 points in the first two games, but he has been unable to find the basket since. Thursday was also the first time he has failed to reach double figures in rebounding. He is still averaging 9.6 points and 10.0 rebounds per game, but he needs to show some more consistency. Hickson has not been a very reliable player through his career, so Fantasy owners should consider him more of a mid-range Fantasy option.
News: Portland center J.J. Hickson has started the season with back-to-back double-doubles for the Blazers as they lost at Oklahoma City Friday. Hickson scored 14 points and grabbed 12 rebounds after notching 13 and 10 in the opener. Hickson shot 5 of 12 from the field Friday and added an assist.
Analysis: Hickson could become a double-double machine for Portland this season as the team's starting center. He has looked great after his first two games and should be active in just about all Fantasy formats.
News: Trail Blazers coach Terry Stotts said J.J. Hickson will serve as the team's starting center on opening night after his strong performance in training camp, The Oregonian reports. Hickson played the final 19 games of last season with Portland, including 10 outings as a starter, and averaged 15.1 points and 8.3 rebounds per night. "As I said from Day 1, he’s the incumbent, he played well last year," Stotts said. "I think there’s a good feel with him out there. He’s played well at practice. I want to look at him first."
Analysis: Hickson was expected to battle with rookie Meyers Leonard for the starting job in the middle, but the Blazers will run with the incumbent at the beginning of the season. At 6-foot-9, he will be undersized at the position, but he does have experience at center when he filled in for Shaquille O'Neal during the 2009-10 season while with Cleveland. "I think I’ve shown it in training camp, just being a lot more active, working on my boxing out, closing out toward shooters, and just being aggressive and talking on defense," said Hickson, who added he is in better shape now than after his release from Sacramento last March. Fantasy owners should consider him a quality option toward the middle rounds of most upcoming drafts as he does hold some upside.
News: Y! Sports reports the Trail Blazers and forward J.J. Hickson agreed on a one-year, $4 million deal Wednesday. Hickson averaged 15.1 points with 8.3 rebounds and 0.9 blocks in 19 games for Portland after being claimed off waivers from Sacramento.
Analysis: Hickson stepped up with LaMarcus Aldridge injured down the stretch last season and helped out some owners with his increase in production. He has proven in the past to be a viable option in Fantasy and should see some decent playing time in Portland. Consider taking a flier on Hickson in the late rounds of deeper Fantasy formats for the upcoming campaign.
News: 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.
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.
News: The Trail Blazers were without star forward LaMarcus Aldridge on Friday, so newly-acquired forward J.J. Hickson stepped in and did his best Aldridge impersonation, scoring 29 points and almost leading the team to an upset win over the Clippers. Hickson, playing in just his fifth game with Portland since coming over from Sacramento, set a new season high in scoring as well as rebounding, by grabbing 13 boards. He shot 13 of 19 from the field in the game, while also adding two assists, however his efforts were not enough to put the Blazers over the top, as they fell, 98-97.
Analysis: Hickson wasted away in Sacramento to start the season, but his effort – not to mention the results-- has been noticeably better since joining the Blazers. Hickson is averaging 16.0 and 5.8 rebounds in five games since joining the Blazers. He is starting to show the form that made him a viable starting Fantasy option last season in Cleveland, and if Aldridge is forced to miss more time, Hickson could really continue to step up. Regardless, Fantasy owners in all formats should begin picking Hickson up, as he is playing at a very high level right now.
News: Newly-acquired Trail Blazers forward J.J. Hickson made his first appearance with the team on Friday, scoring 14 points in 22 minutes as the team lost to the Lakers, 103-96. Hickson, who had spent the season with the Kings prior to being waived earlier this week, shot 6 of 9 from the field while grabbing two rebounds and dishing out two assists in the loss.
Analysis: Hickson had a very tough go of things with the Kings, shooting 37.0 percent from the field while averaging 4.7 points per game, very poor numbers for an offensive-minded low-post player. Friday was a great debut for the talented forward who is still just 23 years old, so hopefully that is a harbinger of more good performances to come. At this point, Fantasy owners will want to wait and see how Hickson’s role plays out with the new team, however he could emerge as a low-end option in the future.
News: The Oregonian reports that the Trail Blazers made a surprise move to fortify their frontline Wednesday, claiming power forward J.J. Hickson off waivers. Hickson was released by the Kings on Monday, after the sides agreed to a buyout on what was left of his $2.3 million salary this season, and it was assumed the 23 year-old was destined to clear waivers and become a free agent. But, in a surprise move, the Blazers claimed Hickson, thwarting the Warriors and Suns, teams that were thought to be frontrunners to sign him. The Blazers are hopeful Hickson will join the team Thursday. Hickson will be a restricted free agent after the season, assuming the Blazers extend a qualifying offer, and it's possible he could be a long-term piece of the franchise moving forward.
Analysis: Fantasy owners should keep an eye on what happens with Hickson, and he has the chance to make an impact right away. Portland can start Hickson with Marcus Camby now gone, and he could have the chance to produce with enough minutes. He is someone to monitor as the season comes to a close.
News: According to SI.com, the Trail Blazers were awarded forward J.J. Hickson from waivers on Wednesday. The Kings bought Hickson out on Tuesday and cleared waivers.
Analysis: The Warriors and Suns were supposedly the frontrunners for Hickson, but the Trail Blazers scooped him up. In 35 games for the Kings, Hickson averaged 4.7 points and 5.1 boards per game in around 18 minutes of action. Hickson will add frontcourt depth for Portland, but its unsure how he'll figure into the mix. Fantasy owners should keep tabs on him to see how Hickson fits in. Right now, he's worth stashing in deeper Fantasy formats.
News: Yahoo! Sports reports that forward J.J. Hickson has completed a buyout with the Kings on Monday. He is now free to sign with any team he wants. According to the report, the Warriors and Suns are the frontrunners to sign the 23-year-old.
Analysis: Hickson struggled with the Kings, and he can now shop his services around to a contender in need of a big body. We hope Hickson lands with a team where he can get playing time, and his Fantasy value will depend on where he signs. Continue to monitor what develops, and Hickson could be worth adding where available in case he gets an opportunity to shine.
News: Kings forward J.J. Hickson will be available to play in Tuesday night's contest against the Warriors, according to the team's official website. Hickson has missed the last six games with a hip pointer.
Analysis: The Kings have developed pretty good front-court depth recently, as the rest of their options have gotten healthy. As a result, it is unlikely that Hickson will be able to get solid minutes. Hickson has minimal Fantasy value in the majority of leagues.
News:The Sacramento Bee reports Kings forward J.J. Hickson practiced Monday for the first time since injuring his hip March 1 against the Clippers. He has missed the last six games. "He was OK," coach Keith Smart said. "He got on the floor, got a chance to move around, but we stayed in the halfcourt today."
Analysis: Hickson appears close to getting back into game action for Sacramento. Unfortunately, he is not thriving as expected in his first season with the Kings and has very low-end Fantasy appeal when active.
News: Kings forward J.J. Hickson missed his sixth consecutive game on Sunday against the Hawks, as he remains sidelined with a hip pointer. Hickson is considered day-to-day at this point.
Analysis: The Kings have developed pretty good front-court depth recently, as the rest of their options have gotten healthy. As a result, it is unlikely that Hickson will be able to get solid minutes whenever he does return. Continue to monitor his status, but considered him just a low-end option in most Fantasy leagues.
News: The Kings announced Thursday that forward J.J. Hickson will be unable to make his return from a hip pointer that has cost him five games on Friday against the Mavericks. Hickson is reportedly close to returning, but has already been ruled out for Friday.
Analysis: Even if Hickson is able to return soon, the Kings actually have some pretty nice front-court depth, so it’s hard to see him earning full-time minutes moving forward. At this point, Hickson has just minimal Fantasy value in most leagues.
News: The Sacramento Bee reports that Kings forward J.J. Hickson (hip pointer), who missed his fourth consecutive game Wednesday against New Orleans, is getting closer to returning, coach Keith Smart said. Hickson landed on his hip after going up for a rebound in last Thursday's loss to the Clippers. "He's doing much better," Smart said. "He's able to do some work on the elliptical and bike. So he's coming along."
Analysis: Keep an eye on Hickson's status, and hopefully he can return to action soon. When healthy and active, Hickson has minimal Fantasy value in the majority of leagues.
News: The Sacramento Bee reports that Kings head coach Keith Smart said forward J.J. Hickson (hip pointer) is improving but will not be available for Wednesday night's game against the Hornets. "He's doing much better," Smart said. "He was on the crutches at first, then he was walking gingerly and now he's able to do some work on the elliptical and bike. So he's coming along." Smart said any timetable for Hickson's return is up to team doctors. This will be the fourth game Hickson has missed since he fell hard on the hip after going up for a rebound in the Kings' loss to the Clippers last Tuesday. He is averaging 4.9 points and 5.1 rebounds a game.
Analysis: Fantasy owners in daily leagues should keep Hickson reserved, and hopefully he can return to action soon. When healthy and active, Hickson has minimal Fantasy value in the majority of leagues.
News: According to multiple reports, Kings forward J.J. Hickson will miss the next three games. An MRI and x-ray revealed that he has a hip pointer. Hickson took a hard fall after he went up for a rebound in the second half of Thursday's game against the Clippers. He finished with four points, two boards, one steal and one assist in his 13 minutes on the court. Hickson will be re-evaluated next week.
Analysis: There has been rumors that the Kings are looking for a taker for Hickson before the trade deadline. This injury will likely put a damper on his value moving forward. The big man hasn't been playing much lately either, just 12 minutes per game over his last four outings. He's averaging 2.0 points and 3.0 boards over that span. Fantasy owners should reserve Hickson at this time as he's a risky start in any format. Keep an eye on his health and his status with the team over the next two weeks.
News: According to the Sacramento Bee, Kings forward J.J. Hickson has been diagnosed with a left hip injury and will not travel with the team to Los Angeles. Hickson took a hard fall after he went up for a rebound in the second half of Thursday's game against the Clippers. He finished with four points, two boards, one steal and one assist in his 13 minutes on the court. The Kings ended up losing the game, 108-100.
Analysis: Hickson hasn't been getting a ton of playing time for the Kings, just 12 minutes per game over his last four outings. He's averaging 2.0 points and 3.0 boards over that span. It's unclear how serious this injury is, but if he's not traveling with the team he may be out a while. Fantasy owners in the deepest of leagues should keep an eye on Hickson's status moving forward as he has low-end appeal.
News: Kings power forward J.J. Hickson only saw seven minutes of run on Wednesday in a win over Washington. Hickson went 1 for 3 in the game and scored two points. He grabbed one rebound.
Analysis: The 23-year-old Hickson continues to be a better talent than player in the NBA. Hickson still shows flashes, but only averages 5.1 points and 5.3 rebounds per game over 20 minutes on the year. He is just a low-end Fantasy option for the deepest of leagues.
News: Sacramento PF J.J. Hickson did little during Wednesday's loss in Madison Square Garden against the Knicks. Hickson played just 17 minutes in the game as he went 1 of 4 from the field to drop two points. Hickson grabbed six rebounds and blocked two shots in the game for the Kings.
Analysis: The 23-year-old Hickson continues to be a better talent than player in the NBA. Hickson still shows flashes, but only averages 5.5 points and 5.5 rebounds per game over 20 minutes on the year. He is just a low-end Fantasy option for the deepest of leagues.
News: Kings forward J.J. Hickson tied his season high on Tuesday night with 11 rebounds. He shot 4 for 6 from the field, finishing with eight points. The big man added a block and a steal in his 26 minutes on the court. The Timberwolves would go on to beat the Kings, 86-84.
Analysis: Hickson has been getting around 16 minutes off the bench for the Kings over the last five outings. He's averaging just 4.6 points and 4.0 boards over that span, while shooting 56.3 percent from the field. While he has shown upside before, his role keeps him limited to only the deepest Fantasy leagues.
News: The Kings leaned heavily on their starters on Thursday and used just four players off the bench in the game against the Trail Blazers. F J.J. Hickson was one of those four, though he managed to play just 15 minutes in the game, as the Kings went with Chuck Hayes more often. Hickson finished the game with six points on 2 of 3 shooting with two free throws, while adding two rebounds and two steals.
Analysis: Hickson has seen his role greatly reduced over the last two weeks, as the Kings have worked Hayes back into the rotation. Hickson has played 20 minutes or more in a game just once in his last five games, scoring just 4.4 points per game in that span. At this point, Hickson clearly isn’t a focal point for the Kings, scoring in double figures just three times on the season. While he has shown upside before, his role keeps him limited to only the deepest Fantasy leagues at this point.
News: Sacramento F J.J. Hickson netted six points and pulled down four rebounds during the Kings' 101-89 loss to Portland on Monday night. Hickson played off the bench for the fourth consecutive game as Jason Thompson earned the start for Sacramento. He connected on 3 of his 8 attempts from the field to finish with less than 10 points for the ninth straight outing. He is now averaging just 6.5 points per game this year.
Analysis: Hickson failed to take advantage of his starting role when Chuck Hayes was sidelined with an injury and will now come off the bench for the Kings. Thompson has been playing well in the past four games while Hickson has not surpassed 24 minutes on the court during that stretch. With limited playing time, Hickson's rebounding was dropped off and he was held without a board for the first time this season during last Saturday's game. Fantasy owners should consider him a low-end reserve option in deeper formats for now.
News: Kings F J.J. Hickson found himself thrust into a starting role with the injury to Chuck Hayes early in the season. However in the six games since Hayes was lost, Hickson has scored in double figures just once while notching double-digit rebounds the same amount of times. On Monday, he played 27 minutes in the game against the Timberwolves, scoring nine points with four rebounds, another subpar game. He shot the ball poorly, making just 4 of 11 shots from the field.
Analysis: After a 14-point, 11-rebound performance in his first start, it looked like the starting opportunity would be a boon to his Fantasy value, much like starting for the Cavaliers in 2010-11 was. However he is averaging just 5.8 points and 7.0 rebounds per game in his last five, worse production than his overall season performances. Despite holding onto the starting spot, he is shooting just 36.8 percent from the field and until he can prove he’s found his shot, should not be relied on in any Fantasy format.
News: After Sacramento C Chuck Hayes was sidelined for several weeks with a shoulder injury, the Kings needed another player to carry his spot in the starting lineup. So far, that has been F J.J. Hickson, who started at power forward against Orlando on Sunday and played a season-high 38 minutes. He finished with 14 points and 11 rebounds for his second double-double of the season. Sacramento coach Keith Smart said the 23-year-old also brings another intangible to the lineup. "Energy," Smart told the Sacramento Bee. "His energy and his effort will always keep him involved and active in the game."
Analysis: Hickson was expected to benefit from Hayes’ injury, and the early returns are positive. Despite being just 6-foot-9, Hickson is second on the team in rebounding behind DeMarcus Cousins (7.3) and is expected to remain in the starting lineup for now. "I think every coach knows I'm going to run the floor and I'm going to play hard," Hickson said. "It's easy to put me in there next to anybody because you know what you're going to get from me." Fantasy owners should consider Hickson a mid-range option in most formats while Hayes is out.
News: With the injury to Chuck Hayes, J.J. Hickson has emerged as the starting power forward for the Kings. In his first game without Hayes on Sunday against the Magic, Hickson scored 14 points on five-of-seven shooting and grabbed a team-high 11 rebounds – three offensive – in a 104-97 loss to the Magic. He made four out of his six free throws and had four assists a steal and a block, though he did turn the ball over five times in the game. It was Hickson’s best game since coming to the Kings in an offseason trade for Omri Casspi.
Analysis: Hickson was expected to benefit from Hayes’ injury, and the early returns are extremely positive. While he’s not going to be a nightly double-double, he should see enough playing time for the Kings to remain a mid-range Fantasy forward moving forward.
News: Sacramento F J.J. Hickson scored seven points and grabbed 11 rebounds in the Kings 103-100 victory over the Bucks on Thursday night and may have found himself back in the starting lineup on the night. However it wouldn’t be for his performance, but because of an injury to starting center Chuck Hayes, who dislocated his shoulder in the game and will miss at least two weeks. Hickson started when DeMarcus Cousins was taken out of the lineup and should be the first in line to get starts with Hayes out.
Analysis: Obviously, Hickson will benefit while Hayes it out, so Fantasy owners should keep an eye on the situation moving forward. Hickson has proven in the past that he can be considered a solid mid-range Fantasy F, if he sees starter minutes.
News: Kings F J.J. Hickson notched his first double-double of the season in Tuesday night's contest against the Grizzlies. Hickson, who was starting in place of DeMarcus Cousins, finished with 12 points and 10 rebounds in the 113-96 loss. He shot just 3 of 9 from the field, but did make all six of his free-throw attempts, while also chipping in one assist, steal and block in 23 minutes of game action.
Analysis: Hickson earned his first start of the season due to Cousins' antics earlier in the week, but no one really knows what will happen moving forward. Cousins is likely on the trading block at this point, but coach Paul Westphal has yet to tip his hand about how he plans to use the Kings' volatile second-year player moving forward. Obviously, Hickson would benefit if Cousins is traded or continues to come off the bench, so Fantasy owners should keep an eye on situation moving forward. Hickson has proved he can be considered solid mid-range Fantasy F, if he sees starter minutes.
News: After an unimpressive season debut, Kings F J.J. Hickson looked better on Tuesday night against the Trail Blazers. He scored 10 points and hauled in five rebounds in the 101-79 loss. He went 4 for 6 from the field and made 2 of 3 free throws while playing 28 minutes off the bench. Hickson also had an assist in the defeat.
Analysis: Hickson has seen 20-plus minutes in each of the first two games this season as he is expected to provide the Kings with some production off the bench in the frontcourt. He showed last season that he can be a nice source of scoring and rebounding but his value this season will be based on his role. Keep an eye on the situation going forward. For now, consider Hickson as more of a low-end Fantasy F.
News: Sacramento forward J.J. Hickson didn't make a very good impression in his first preseason game for the Kings. He shot a dismal 1-for-7 from the field, finishing with just two points. He did lead the team with seven rebounds. Hickson also had three assists and two steals in his 32 minutes of action. The Kings would end up losing to the Warriors, 107-96, on Saturday. Neither DeMarcus Cousin or Chuck Hayes played in the contest.
Analysis: Hickson has already been penciled in to come off the bench for the Kings, joining Jason Thompson and Hassan Whiteside as depth on the frontcourt. Hickson, who was acquired in June, averaged 13.8 points and 8.7 rebounds for the Cavs last season. Hickson would obviously see his value go up if anything happens to Hayes or Cousin. For now, he is just a low-end forward option worth taking in the later rounds of Draft Day.
News: The Sacramento Bee reports that PF J.J. Hickson will likely start the season on the bench for the Kings. Hickson, who was dealt to Sacramento in June, averaged 13.8 points and 8.7 rebounds per night with the Cavaliers this season. Chuck Hayes is currently penciled in as the team's starting power forward.
Analysis: Hickson put together a breakout campaign last season in Cleveland, which put him on the Fantasy map. However, he will at least start the year on the bench, so won't be able to count on the 28 minutes he averaged in Cleveland. Nothing is set in stone, so Fantasy owners should keep an eye on how the Kings' rotation takes shape over the next few weeks. As it stands right now, owners should consider Hickson worthy of a late-round pick in most formats.
News: Multiple reports surfaced Thursday of a deal being finalized by the Cavaliers to send J.J. Hickson to Sacramento for forward Omri Casspi and a conditional first-round pick. The Sacramento Bee confirms the setup of the deal involving the pick, which will allow the Kings to keep the 2012 pick unless they make the playoffs.
Analysis: Hickson finished last season averaging 13.8 points and 8.7 rebounds per night in a breakout campaign, and he will now start at power forward in Sacramento. His Fantasy value should continue to improve, and we consider him a must-start option in all leagues. He will now play alongside DeMarcus Cousins in a lineup that features Tyreke Evans, Marcus Thornton and Jimmer Fredette. Look for plenty of rebound chances for Hickson, who could average a double-double in 2011-12. He is worth an early-round pick in all leagues.
News: The Sports Xchange reports the Cavaliers didn't address any of their problem areas -- center, small forward or shooting guard. But they seem to be cornering the market on 6-9 forwards. If there's one position the Cavaliers have talent, it's power forward. So, naturally, they selected a power forward in the NBA Draft on Thursday. The Cavs' selection at No. 4 was a bit surprising, to say the least, as they drafted Texas power forward Tristan Thompson. The 6-foot-8, 225-pounder will be added to a stable of talented power forwards already on the roster that includes Samardo Samuels, Antawn Jamison, Anderson Varejao and starter J.J. Hickson. Varejao was the starting center last year before suffering a season-ending injury to his ankle. It's going to be next to impossible to find regular minutes for all four players even though Varejao might be asked to play center once again. The addition of Thompson has fueled speculation that a trade could be in the works, perhaps with Hickson.
Analysis: We'll find out if Hickson will be impacted by Thompson, but we still expect Hickson to maintain a prominent role in the rotation. Keep an eye on his status now that Thompson is in the fold, but if Hickson remains the starter for the Cavs he would be worth drafting with a mid-round pick in all leagues.
News: Cavaliers F J.J. Hickson had plenty of ups and downs this season after assuming a larger role on the club after LeBron James' departure last summer. He started off the season strong, scoring in double-figures in eight of the first nine games. Hickson became very inconsistent afterward, and struggled through the new year. Then on January 5, coach Byron Scott benched him for missing shootaround. He said that he wouldn't play in that game because of his lack of rebounding and approach to the game. Hickson got the message, upping his work on the glass from 5.5 per game to nearly 11 after the discipline. He hasn't looked back since. "He's played well," Scott told the Cleveland Plain Dealer. "This has become a real good year. I think he really has been helped by B.D. [Baron Davis]. The whole team has." Hickson finished the season averaging 13.8 points and 8.7 rebounds per night, though his averages would match a double-double from January on.
Analysis: Hickson had a career-year in nearly all categories this season, and he played in 80 games to prove durable as well. He had the same type of impact in Fantasy play, and he finished as the No. 13 scoring center in standard CBSSports.com leagues despite the mid-season trouble. Hickson was on fire to close the season out, averaging a gaudy 19.5 points and 12.3 rebounds in the season's final month of April. He was drafted just after the 10th round in most formats, and he certainly outplayed the position as he finished with better Fantasy campaigns than Andrew Bogut, Andrew Bynum and Andray Blatche -- who were all drafted well sooner than Hickson no matter the format. He is heading into a contract season in 2011-12, so he might be even more motivated to bring his numbers up next year. We like the NC State product as a mid-round value in the fall.
News: Cavaliers F J.J. Hickson made his presence felt in the paint during Tuesday's 99-89 win over the Bobcats. Hickson finished with 16 points in the contest on 7 of 18 shooting from the field. He went 2 of 3 from the free-throw line and also finished with 19 rebounds and a pair of assists while logging 36 minutes.
Analysis: Hickson continues to play well down the home stretch of the season. He has scored at least 20 points in four of his last five contests and is averaging 20.2 points and 11.2 rebounds over that stretch. Despite a season that was filled with a few run ins with coach Bryon Scott and a pretty brutal mid-season slump, Hickson has managed to turn in a pretty solid 2010-11 campaign. Keep the 22-year-old active in all formats over the final few games of the season.
News: Cavaliers forward J.J. Hickson paced the team in Tuesday's stunning 102-90 win over the Heat. He shot 6 of 13 from the floor and connected on 9 of 10 free throws on the way to 21 points. Hickson complimented the scoring with a game-high 12 rebounds to secure his fourth straight double-double. He added an assist and a block in 33 minutes of playing time.
Analysis: Hickson continues to play well this season, with much more of a responsibility inside as a starter. He had his way with the taller -- and slimmer -- Chris Bosh throughout the game. Hickson has been getting it done on both ends of the floor, as he held Bosh to just 10 points and four rebounds in the win. He is still playing at a high level after a rough start to the season, as the N.C. State product has averaged a double-double in January, February and again in March. Fantasy owners should continue to utilize Hickson as a mid-range option in the majority of formats moving forward.
News: Cavaliers forward J.J. Hickson led his team with 28 points and nine rebounds on Saturday versus the Clippers. It was only the second time he scored more than 20 points this month. Hickson nailed 12 of his 18 shots from the field and converted all four of his freebies at the charity stripe. The big man also dished out four assists in his 35 minutes on the court, but it wouldn't be enough. The Cavs would eventually lose to the Clippers, 100-92.
Analysis: Hickson has been a little banged up this year, but one of the more durable players the Cavs have had. Throw in a few misunderstandings with his coach and it's been a rough road for the young player. But Hickson has played through all the ups and downs of the season and can be considered a solid Fantasy option. While he has struggled lately, Hickson is still averaging 12.4 points and 9.4 boards over his last five games, while shooting 48.1 percent from the floor. Fantasy owners should keep him active as he's one of the few bright spots in Cleveland this year.
News: The Northern Ohio News-Herald reports that J.J. Hickson is expected to be in the starting lineup for Wednesday's game in Milwaukee. He left Tuesday's game with a dislocated left pinky finger.
Analysis: Fantasy owners in daily lineup leagues should be able to count on Hickson, who remains a quality play in most formats. He is averaging 16.4 points and 9.6 rebounds over his last five games and should continue to reap the benefits of ample playing time down the stretch.
News: Cleveland forward J.J. Hickson was serviceable in Tuesday's loss to Golden State, scoring 10 points and pulling down seven rebounds before leaving with a dislocated left pinky in the fourth quarter. He did it while trying to catch a pass, then grabbed and clutched his hand in pain. Play was stopped and he sprinted past Cleveland's trainer and ran directly to the Cavs' locker room. He returned a few minutes later with his fingers taped together but did not return to the game. Hickson finished the night playing 29 minutes, adding three assists and a steal to compliment the scoring and rebounding.
Analysis: Hickson ran into the locker room with his finger in the wrong direction, and he received some X-rays that came back negative. The team called it just a dislocation, yet he didn't return to the floor although the game was out of reach at that point. It may have been a precautionary move to hold him out of the remainder of the game, but time will tell. Hickson will be re-evaluated on Wednesday, and the picture will become more clear. Fanatsy owners should monitor the situation moving forward, since the Cavs play against the Bucks less than 24 hours after the injury. Hickson is a viable Fantasy option in all formats when healthy despite his streaky play.
News: Cleveland forward J.J. Hickson had 24 points and 15 rebounds on Friday night as the Cavaliers shocked the new-look Knicks. The Cavs won the game 115-109, beating the Knicks for the second time this season. Hickson also had a career-high five blocks in his 39 minutes on the court. He shot 9 for 17 from the field and converted 6 of his 10 foul shots. Hickson now has 15 double-doubles on the season.
Analysis: Hickson has had some mental lapses this season which has cause a riff between him and coach Byron Scott. Scott and his 22-year-old forward seem to be on the same page now and the Cavaliers are benefiting. He's averaging 17.0 points, 10.6 boards and 1.1 blocks over his last 10 outings. Cleveland added two big guys and a veteran point guard on Thursday, so Hickson could get some help on the frontcourt. While he has been streaky this year, Hickson seems to be in a nice groove. Fantasy owners in all formats should view him as a high-end option the remainder of the season.
News: Cavaliers forward J.J. Hickson and coach Byron Scott haven't seen eye-to-eye all season, but the 22-year-old has developed into one of the best players in Cleveland. According to The News-Herald, Hickson may have these mental lapses occasionally, but he knows he won't win the battles with his coach. "When he figured out he couldn't win," he said. "I control minutes. You can't win that battle. He was just a young guy trying to find himself and what his role was. It never got to the point where we were yelling and screaming at each other." While the Cavs haven't been good this year, Hickson has been steady for them. He's had nine double-doubles in his last 13 games. Scott told Hickson he wasn't playing all-out early in the season, and has since changed his ways. "When you come off the court, you should have no energy," Hickson said. "In my mind, I did, but now I'm really starting to know what it feels like to not have any energy when you come off the court."
Analysis: Hickson is averaging 16.5 points, 12.2 rebounds and 1.5 blocks over his last 13 games. He's also shooting 47.4 percent from the floor over that span. He played a big part in breaking the team's 26-game losing streak. Hickson had four blocks in that game, none more important than when he swatted Baron Davis' layup as time expired. Fantasy owners that stuck with Hickson have to be pleased. With him in his coach's good graces, Hickson will continue getting plenty of minutes and producing with them. Consider him a high-end forward option in the majority of Fantasy formats.
News: Cleveland forward J.J. Hickson had some key plays on Friday night against Los Angeles as the Cavaliers ended it's 26-game losing streak. Hickson scored 27 points and grabbed 14 rebounds -- eight of them coming on the offensive end -- but his four blocks would prove most important. He blocked Blake Griffin twice late in the game and swatted Baron Davis' layup as time expired, sending the game into overtime. The Clippers wanted goaltending on the play, but it appeared Hickson tapped away the ball just as it reached its peak. Hickson shot 12 for 19 from the field and converted all three of his foul shots. Hickson's efforts would help the Cavs earn the team's second win in the last 38 games -- a 126-119 overtime victory.
Analysis: Hickson played another great game for the Cavs, as he has been a beast lately. Over his last five games he's averaging 22.6 points, 12.4 boards and 1.4 blocks per contest. Those numbers are worth using in every Fantasy format. Despite playing for the lowly Cavs, Hickson has been playing at a high level. Cleveland plays just once next week, but once the All-Star break is over there is no reason why Hickson shouldn't be active in the majority of Fantasy formats.
News: Cleveland PF J.J. Hickson had another monster performance on Wednesday night against the Pistons in another Cavaliers loss. Hickson went for 18 and 15 this time as he went 8 of 12 from the field over 38 minutes. He added four assists and a blocked shot.
Analysis: Fantasy owners should not care that the Cavaliers are absolutely horrendously bad as long as Hickson is producing as he has recently. He's putting up 19.2 points and 10.2 rebounds per game -- with a block, too -- over his last five. Playing this well, Hickson should be active in most Fantasy formats.
News: Cavaliers forward J.J. Hickson matched his career best with 31 points but it wasn't enough as Cleveland matched the longest single-season losing streak in NBA history, dropping their 23rd straight game with a 112-105 loss to the Memphis on Friday night. Hickson shot 11 of 21 from the field in the contest and grabbed 15 rebounds while logging 39 minutes in the defeat. He scored 21 of his points before halftime and also chipped in with two assists and a steal.
Analysis: Hickson had a monster game on Friday night, but has been a model of inconsistency for Cleveland this season. The 22-year-old continues to baffle the Cavs and Fantasy owners alike with his up-and-down production. Look at what he has done over his last five games. Hickson goes for 24 points and 14 rebounds, then is shut out, then goes for 14 and 9 only to be followed up by a 10 and 3 performance on Wednesday against the Pacers. The talent is there, however, Hickson will need to learn to how to produce consistently before he can be classified as a high-end Fantasy option. Continue to view him as a solid mid-range Fantasy option, heading into Fantasy Week 16 (Feb. 7-13).
News: After being held scoreless, in Cleveland's matchup with the Magic on Sunday, Cavaliers forward J.J. Hickson was able to find the bottom of the basket in Monday's 117-90 loss to the Heat. Hickson scored 14 points in the contest on 6 of 14 shooting from the field. He also grabbed nine rebounds in the defeat and finished with two steals, a pair of assists and a block in 33 minutes.
Analysis: Hickson continues to be a model of inconsistency for the Cavaliers and Fantasy owners this season. While he has been playing much better of late, his up-and-down production continues to limit his Fantasy value and minutes for Cleveland. Hickson has scored in double figures in five of his last six contests and should continue to be viewed as a low-end Fantasy option for the time being.
News: Cleveland F J.J. Hickson recorded his second straight double-double on Friday night against Portland and scored more points than he had since Nov. 1. He dropped 24 points and hauled in 14 rebounds, including six on the offensive glass, in the 117-103 loss. He was an efficient 10 of 12 from the field and made 4 of 8 free throws while playing 33 minutes. Hickson also chipped in with two assists and two blocked shots in the defeat.
Analysis: Hickson has been playing better of late and has recorded a double-double six times in his last 10 games. He is averaging 12.6 points with 12.8 rebounds and 1.4 blocks over his last five contests while shooting nearly 44 percent from the floor over that span. Hickson will continue to see solid minutes for the Cavs, especially with Anderson Varejao likely done for the year, and has Miami, Indiana, Memphis and Portland on the schedule for Week 15 (Jan. 31-Feb. 6). Even though his scoring has been inconsistent, continue to view Hickson as a viable option in all deeper Fantasy formats.
News: Cleveland PF J.J. Hickson has been rebounding like crazy of late for the Cavaliers and he ripped down 17 boards on Tuesday in a loss to Boston. Hickson, who scored 12 points in the game on 6 of 10 shooting over 23 minutes, added a career-high five assists and a career-high four blocked shots in the performance.
Analysis: Hickson has a 15-rebound and 20-rebound game among his last five games played and is averaging 13 boards per night over that stretch. That comes with 11 points for the double-double and a block and steal as well. If Hickson could just score more consistently, he'd be a top Fantasy option the way he's playing. He'll continue to have his struggles, but Fantasy owners should still have him active in all deeper formats at least.
News: Cavaliers forward J.J. Hickson grabbed a season-high 20 rebounds -- 11 coming on the offensive end -- on Saturday against the Bulls. He scored just 13 points on a 5-for-19 shooting performance, but it was good enough for his fifth double-doubles of the year. He connected on 3 of his 6 foul shots, added a steal, blocked one shot and had one assist in his 33 minutes of action. "Hickson crushed us on the boards," Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau said. "He could have set a rebounding record today." His efforts would fall on the losing side of things, as the Bulls beat the Cavs, 92-79.
Analysis: Hickson has embraced his new role with the team after an up and down season for the Cavs. He's been in coach Byron Scott's doghouse and now seems to be in the good graces as he's filling in for the injured Anderson Varejao -- who is out for the year. "He's doing a good job of rebounding," Scott said earlier in the week. "I think his whole attitude has changed." Over his last five games, Hickson is averaging 13.0 points and 12.6 boards per contest. With him in line for plenty of court time, Fantasy owners should view Hickson as a solid start in most formats. He'll be even more valuable in leagues that allow dual eligibility.
News: According to the Cleveland Plain Dealer, Cavaliers forward J.J. Hickson is embracing his role as the team's new starting center and being a contributor on the glass. With Anderson Varejao out of action, Hickson took over his spot in the starting lineup five games ago. Over that span he's averaging 11.8 boards per contest. His season average is just 6.1 rebounds per game. "He's doing a good job of rebounding," Cavaliers coach Byron Scott said. "I think his whole attitude has changed." Scott and Hickson haven't seen eye-to-eye this year as his young forward was benched for missing a mandatory practice. "His approach has changed. He's been much more focused. He's been great at practice. The one thing that we talk about with J.J. is on the defensive end, communicating a lot better, and more, and he's doing a lot better job of that," Scott added. "The one thing that I think has been really good about him is he hasn't forced anything. He is taking what the defense is giving him. He's rebounding the ball much better. These are all the things we knew he could do."
Analysis: Hickson has three double-doubles over his last five games after Wednesday's 16-point and 15-rebound performance. The Cavs will likely lean on Hickson a lot more the remainder of the season, hopefully getting him to live up to his potential. "I think it helps his confidence just being on the floor 30-plus minutes," Scott said. If Hickson can stay confident in himself and keep up his current production, Fantasy owners will want to get him active. He's not an elite option, but is more than worthy to use in most Fantasy formats, especially in leagues that allow dual eligibility.
News: Cleveland forward J.J. Hickson has been a scoring and rebounding machine lately. He picked up his third double-double over his last five games on Wednesday against Phoenix. He scored 16 points and grabbed 15 rebounds in his 36 minutes of court time. Hickson shot 5 for 11 from the field and converted 6 of his 7 foul shots. The Cavs would battle back late after they were down by double figures at one point, but fall short as the Suns went on to win the game 106-98. Hickson added a steal and two assists for Cleveland.
Analysis: Hickson has been in and out of the starting lineup all year, but with Anderson Varejao out the remainder of the season, Hickson will be leaned on heavily. Over his last five games, Hickson's averaging 15.6 points, 11.8 boards, 1.0 block and 2.2 assists per contest. With his increased minutes and solid production, Fantasy owners should get Hickson active in all formats where he is owned.
News: After scoring just five points in his last outing, Cleveland F J.J. Hickson got back on track on Friday night against Utah. He scored 21 points and hauled in 14 rebounds in the 121-99 loss. He went 8 of 13 from the field and converted 5 of 9 free throws while playing 36 minutes. Hickson also chipped in with three assists and two blocked shots, but committed nine turnovers in the defeat. "I think as a whole, we've got to do a better job of staying focused for the full 48 minutes," Hickson said. "We did a good job of that in the second half."
Analysis: Hickson has picked up his production since Anderson Varejao went down with an injury and has recorded two monster double-doubles in his last three games. He is averaging 16.5 points with 11 rebounds and 1.3 blocks over his last four contests and appears to be breaking out after a slow start to the season. After being moved back and forth from the bench to the starting rotation, Hickson should be able to hold onto his starting job, at least for the immediate future, and should start getting more looks in a majority of Fantasy leagues. Consider getting the 22-year-old active heading into Week 13 (Jan. 17-23).
News: Cavaliers forward J.J. Hickson delivered another solid performance in Sunday night's 108-100 loss to the Suns. Hickson scored 23 points in the defeat on on 8 of 23 shooting from the floor to go along with a season-high 17 rebounds. He went 7 of 11 from the charity stripe and also chipped in with three assists, two rebounds and a block. Hickson has now scored a combined 40 points and pulled down 26 total rebounds in the two games since he was benched for missing a mandatory practice.
Analysis: Hickson was back in the starting lineup on Sunday for the first time in a while, filling in for the injured Anderson Varejao. He began the year starting for Cleveland but was ultimately moved back to the bench after struggling. With Varejao likely out for the season, Hickson could get another shot at starting. He has certainly responded well since his benching on Monday and hopefully has learned from some of his earlier blunders. Fantasy owners may want to think about inserting Hickson back into starting lineups heading into Fantasy Week 12 (Jan. 10-16).
News: After being benched in the last contest and fined for missing a mandatory practice on Monday, Cleveland F J.J. Hickson came back strong on Friday against Golden State. He scored 17 points and hauled in nine rebounds in the 116-98 loss. He went 5 of 13 from the field and converted 7 of 9 free throws while playing 32 minutes off the bench. Hickson also chipped in with two steals and blocked shot in the defeat.
Analysis: Hickson has had a few solid outings this season but has been quite a disappointment to Fantasy owners thus far. He was expected to take his game to the next level with the loss of LeBron James in Cleveland but his progression has been minimal. The air between Hickson and coach Byron Scott seems to be clear right now but who knows what the future will hold. The 22-year-old is averaging 14.3 points with 6.3 rebounds and one steal over his last four contests and hopefully will use his benching as fuel to start picking his game up. Hickson should be considered a low-end forward option in deeper Fantasy leagues at this point.
News: Cleveland forward J.J. Hickson was benched for Wednesday's game against Toronto and fined for missing a mandatory practice on Monday, according to The News-Herald. Hickson and coach Byron Scott had a meeting over the past week in an attempt to clear the air. Both have expressed frustration this season, as neither are happy with the current situation. The Cavaliers would lose to the Raptors, 120-105, without the services of Hickson. "It's in the past," Hickson said. "Hopefully, it's just going to be for one game."
Analysis: Hickson is averaging 10.4 points, 5.1 rebounds and shooting 45.1 percent in his 33 games this season. He hasn't stepped up like Scott or Fantasy owners thought he would this year, which has led him to being a bench player. Hickson is having a career year for the Cavs, but he's just not developing into the player people thought he would. He should be considered a low-end forward option in deeper Fantasy leagues right now. This situation is worth monitoring, because if he's traded his value could see a boost.
News: With several starters out for Cleveland on Saturday night, F J.J. Hickson saw a lot of playing time and was productive against Chicago. He played 32 minutes off the bench, scoring 21 points with eight rebounds in the 100-91 loss. He went 9 of 16 from the field and converted 3 of 4 free throws. Hickson also chipped in with two blocked shots and a steal in the defeat. He is averaging 29 minutes with 14 points and 7.3 rebounds over his last three contests.
Analysis: Hickson's production has been sporadic so far this season but he showed on Saturday that he can be a force when given the minutes and opportunity to produce. Although he has just one double-double on the year, he has shown the ability to score when playing well. But with Anderson Varejao (cheek bone) and Mo Williams (hip) dealing with injuries, the 22-year-old could see a boost over the next few games. Hickson is having a career year, averaging 10.5 points with 5.2 rebounds, so continue to track his progress before starting him in a majority of Fantasy leagues.
News: Cleveland forward J.J. Hickson netted 12 points and six rebounds in the Cavaliers' 101-92 loss to Charlotte on Wednesday night. Hickson shot 4 of 9 from the field and was 4 for 6 from the free-throw line to record his highest point total since Dec. 7 when he scored 18 against Philadelphia. Hickson added two assists and a steal as Cleveland failed to reach 100 points for the fifth consecutive game.
Analysis: Hickson played 23 minutes in Wednesday's game but it was only the third time in his last eight outings he has reached 22 minutes. He isn't attempting as many shots as he was at the beginning of the season and is averaging just 7.2 field-goal attempts in his last five games. Cavaliers coach Byron Scott hasn't indicated if Hickson will see more playing time and unless he does, Hickson's Fantasy value will stay stagnant. Keep Hickson stashed on your bench for now.
News: Cleveland PF J.J. Hickson came off the bench to finish in double figures on Monday night in a loss to Utah. Hickson shot 3 for 4 from the field to put up 10 points over 21 minutes. He grabbed nine rebounds in limited time on the floor.
Analysis: Hickson is averaging 8.4 points per game over his last five spanning 20 minutes per night. That is pretty much what can be expected of him until he grows up and learns to play harder on a nightly basis. They guy has so much talent and potential to thrive for Cleveland but he's just a low-end Fantasy option until he can prove it to his coach.
News: Cleveland PF J.J. Hickson has lost a lot of Fantasy value since being demoted to the bench. Hickson scored nine points on Sunday in Oklahoma City in the Cavs' last game. He saw 24 minutes and shot 4 of 9 from the field with four rebounds. Hickson is averaging just 17 minutes per game since being moved to the bench.
Analysis: Hickson is averaging 7.8 points, 3.2 rebounds and minimal other numbers over his last five contests for Cleveland. As a bench player, Hickson is almost not worth having on rosters in 10-team leagues any longer. He has lower-end appeal when coming off the bench. Still, he's too talented to remain this way, isn't he?
News: Cavaliers PF J.J. Hickson, who played only nine minutes when he was replaced in the starting lineup by Antawn Jamison against the Bulls on Wednesday, might continue to play minimal minutes going forward, according to the Akron Beacon-Journal. Now that Jamison's sore knee is healthy, coach Byron Scott plans to play him 30-35 minutes per game, leaving fewer minutes for Hickson.
Analysis: Hickson has a ton of potential as a scorer and rebounder, but he's a raw talent who Scott doesn't think has mastered the offense. The two have butted heads throughout the preseason and regular season, so this move isn't too much of a surprise. It's disappointing for the Fantasy owners who drafted Hickson as a sleeper, though. He's still worth stashing in some leagues because of his potential, but you wouldn't be crazy to drop him either.
News: The Cavaliers, as anticipated, made two lineup changes for Wednesday's game against the Bulls. One of those changes, moved Antawn Jamison into the starting lineup at power forward over J.J. Hickson. Hickson managed just six minutes in the loss and shot 0 for 2 from the field as he failed to score. He added one rebound and one steal with two turnovers.
Analysis: Hickson had already been eclipsed by Jamison in terms of playing time and touches, but this move comes a game after Hickson scored 18 points against the Sixers in one of his better games in a while. Now, it seems he might go all the way down to having low-end value until he starts seeing more minutes again. Hickson is definitely someone to monitor going forward to see how the Cavs use him.
News: Cavaliers F J.J. Hickson was cleared to return in Sunday's game against the Hawks. He missed Saturday's game against Minnesota due to a stomach virus. Coach Byron Scott said prior to the game that Hickson will play without any restrictions.
Analysis: Hickson may be back, but he is not yet a player we recommend activating. He entered play on Sunday having totaled eight points over his previous four games. After a hot start to the season, the team has begun to rely more on veteran Antawn Jamison for minutes at the four. That has led to spotty production from Hickson. He has upside for much more, but he should be reserved in Fantasy until he finds himself in a prominent role again.
News: Cavaliers F J.J. Hickson was not available for Saturday's game against Timberwolves due to an illness. He is averaging 7.7 points with 6.7 rebounds over his last three games.
Analysis: Hickson has been struggling of late so hopefully the night off will do him some good. No word yet on the extent of his illness so Fantasy owners should stay tuned for the latest updates. His inconsistencies have hindered his Fantasy value in a big way as he was expected to step up his game with LeBron James no longer in Cleveland. Hickson will have a solid game every once in a while but he cannot be trusted in most leagues at this point. With Philadelphia, Chicago, Houston and Oklahoma City up on the schedule in Week 7 (Dec. 6-12), consider the 22-year-old a low-end Fantasy option, when healthy.
News: According to the Akron Beacon Journal, Cavaliers F J.J. Hickson was not available for Saturday's game against Timberwolves due to an illness. He is averaging 7.7 points with 6.7 rebounds over his last three games.
Analysis: Hickson has been struggling of late so hopefully the night off will do him some good. No word yet on the extent of his illness so Fantasy owners should stay tuned for the latest updates. His inconsistencies have hindered his Fantasy value in a big way as he was expected to step up his game with LeBron James no longer in Cleveland. Hickson will have a solid game every once in a while but he cannot be trusted in most leagues at this point. With Philadelphia, Chicago, Houston and Oklahoma City up on the schedule in Week 7 (Dec. 6-12), consider the 22-year-old a low-end Fantasy option, when healthy.
News: Cavilers F J.J. Hickson started out hot on Thursday night against the Heat but he could not maintain the entire game. He finished with six points on 3 of 9 shooting and hauled in just four rebounds in the 118-90 loss. Hickson, who played 27 minutes, missed his lone attempt from beyond the arc and did not get to the free throw line. He also had two turnovers in the defeat.
Analysis: Hickson has scored in double figures only one time in his last eight games and is averaging 6.4 points with 5.2 rebounds over his last five contests. His inconsistencies have hindered his Fantasy value in a big way as he was expected to step up his game with LeBron James no longer in Cleveland. Hickson will have a solid game every once in a while but he cannot be trusted in most leagues at this point. Continue to view the 22-year-old as a low-end option until he starts to pick up the production.
News: Cavaliers forward J.J. Hickson scored just one point in Tuesday's 106-87 loss to the Celtics. Hickson played 24 minutes and and was 0 of 4 from the field. He scored his lone point at the free-throw line but was able to grab 11 rebounds in the defeat.
Analysis: Hickson has been very consistent this season and not a tough night scoring on Tuesday. He has not quite yet turned into what many Fantasy owners thought he would so far. Continue to view him as a low-end Fantasy forward at this point.
News: Cavaliers forward J.J. Hickson found a groove shooting on Saturday against the Grizzlies. He went 6 for 11 from the field and hit 4 of his 5 foul shots, finishing with 16 points. It was his first game with double-digit scoring since Nov. 13. Hickson added five rebounds, an assist, a steal and a block in his 24 minutes of court time.
Analysis: Hickson has been struggling this year as he's averaging 12.3 points and 5.5 rebounds per game. Both are career highs for the third-year forward, but he's turning the ball over too much (34 times in 16 games) and isn't evolving into the player the Cavs or Fantasy owners thought he'd be. Coach Bryon Scott had thought about using Hickson off the bench and starting Antawn Jamison. While it hasn't happened yet, this is something for owners to keep their eyes on. Hickson is a low-end starting forward at this point of the season.
News: Cavaliers forward J.J. Hickson posted his first double-digit rebounding total in five games Tuesday against the Pacers. Hickson, who was called out by coach Bryon Scott for his lack of rebounds last week, grabbed 10 in the 100-89 loss. He also scored nine points on 4 of 8 shooting from the floor in 23 minutes.
Analysis: Scott was toying with the idea of starting Antawn Jamison in Hickson's place after the third-year forward out of North Carolina State posted just two rebounds in back-to-back contests. Hickson has responded by grabbing 18 boards over his last two contests, so hopefully he has gotten the message and be will able to get back on track. He is still averaging just over 13 points per game and should be considered a No. 3 Fantasy forward at this point.
News: Cavaliers coach Byron Scott emphasized to the Cleveland Plain Dealer on Wednesday that PF J.J. Hickson will remain his starter for the foreseeable future even though he benched him for the final 18 minutes of Tuesday's game against the 76ers. Hickson has a total of four rebounds over his last two games and is averaging 5.3 per game. Scott thinks he can average closer to eight or nine. "I see so much in him -- maybe more than he sees," Scott said. "I don't want him just to settle."
Analysis: Scott was talking Tuesday about inserting Antawn Jamison into the starting lineup, which would make Hickson the obvious casualty, but apparently that's not going to happen. Hickson is averaging 15.2 points per game and has plenty of natural ability, but until he starts meeting Scott's expectations, he'll be no better than a No. 3 Fantasy forward.
News: Cavaliers PF J.J. Hickson was benched for the final 18 minutes of Tuesday's game against the 76ers after he recorded only two rebounds for the second straight game, and according to the Akron Beacon-Journal, he might lose his starting job to Antawn Jamison if it continues. Hickson thinks his lack of rebounds is a matter of happenstance and that he's using the right technique, but coach Byron Scott disagrees. ''J.J. is like a lot of young 22-year-olds who think their athleticism is going to get it all done," he said. "But technique is very important when it comes to blocking out. I think he's going to get to the point where he understands that a lot better.''
Analysis: Hickson has decent numbers as a starter, but Jamison seems to have recovered from his early-season knee injury and is averaging 14.5 points and 8.0 rebounds over his last four games. This drama could continue all season. Hickson has plenty of natural of ability, but as long as he and his coach continue to butt heads, he'll be at risk of losing his job. For now, you can treat him as a No. 3 or 4 Fantasy forward with upside.
News: Cleveland PF J.J. Hickson played just 17 minutes in Tuesday's game against Philadelphia as he was benched by coach Byron Scott. He finished with eight points on 4 for 9 shooting with two rebounds and a blocked shot. Hickson was benched for lackadaisical play.
Analysis: Hickson has been shooting poorly from the field and is averaging just 12.6 points per game with 4.6 rebounds and less than a block over his last five games. Clearly, coach Scott is getting tired of his lackadaisical ways. Hickson was expected to take on much of the scoring load for the departed LeBron James. Outside of showing flashes, however, Hickson has not lived up to the hype just yet. Fantasy owners might consider reserving him for when he begins to play better.
News: Cavaliers F J.J. Hickson had a subpar night in the loss to the Pacers on Saturday. He scored just 12 points on 4 of 12 shooting from the floor in 31 minutes of action. Hickson also chipped in a couple of rebounds and a block.
Analysis: Hickson has seen a slight drop-off in his numbers over the last two games, he has combined for just 27 points and eight rebounds. Fantasy owners should take this mini-slump with a grain of salt, after all this is the NBA. Expect him to bring the totals back up in the next few games against Philadelphia and New Orleans. Hickson remains a solid Fantasy forward in all leagues.
News: Cavaliers F J.J. Hickson continued to show his ability to put the ball in the basket in Tuesday's 93-91 win over the Nets. Hickson was 8 of 14 from the floor and also grabbed 10 rebounds in the victory. He also had an assist while recording his first double-double of the season.
Analysis: Hickson continues to step up as the primary scorer for Cleveland on the season. He has has scored in double figures in all but one game so far this season and is averaging 18 points over his last five games. He is developing into a solid low-post player and can be considered a solid Fantasy forward in all leagues.
News: Cavilers F J.J. Hickson did not have his finest performance against the Wizards on Saturday night. He scored just 10 points with three rebounds while playing 31 minutes in the 107-102 win. Hickson, who entered the contest averaging 17.8 points per game, shot 4 for 10 from the field and made 2 of 4 free throws. He also had two assists and a blocked shot in the victory.
Analysis: Hickson got off to a hot start this season but took a step back on Saturday night. He is expected to do big things with LeBron James out of the picture, but Fantasy owners should keep in mind that the 22-year-old will have slow nights from time to time. Still, he is developing into a solid low-post player and should be able to get back on track with two games against New Jersey and a matchup with Indiana in Week 3. Continue to view Hickson as a solid option in all leagues.
News: Cleveland PF J.J. Hickson scored 21 points in his season opener but totaled just 21 in his next two games as he flashed some inconsistencies. He was back playing at a very high level on Tuesday in a loss to Atlanta, however. Hickson shot 11 of 17 from the field over 32 minutes and poured in a career-high 31 points for the Cavaliers. He added five rebounds and a steal and went 9 of 11 from the free-throw line.
Analysis: Hickson needs to shoot well from the field in order to play well and he's going to struggle with that at times this season. That said, it is clear that Cleveland's offense revolves around him. He's averaging 18.3 points per game after four contests and that comes with 5.5 rebounds. If he can keep that up, he's going to continue to be worth starting across the board. Only thing is, we think he can get even better.
News: Cleveland PF J.J. Hickson scored just six points on Friday, but bounced-back on Saturday, finishing the night with 15 points on 4 of 11 shooting. Hickson also grabbed five rebounds and distributed four assists in 28 minutes of playing time.
Analysis: Hickson started the year by going over 20 points before Friday's dip to six points. Saturday was more like what we feel he can do for the Cavs this year. Look for Hickson to put up solid stat lines night in, night out. He should be considered a Fantasy starter in all formats.
News: Cleveland PF J.J. Hickson has been called a breakout player entering this season. After all, somebody has to score for the Cavaliers now that LeBron James is gone. Hickson got things started right in Wednesday's opener against the Celtics and the Cavs didn't miss a beat as they defeated Boston. Hickson scored a team-high 21 points as he went 8 of 11 from the field over 30 minutes. He added six rebounds and a block.
Analysis: We told you all preseason how much we thought Hickson could come out and provide the scoring touch for Cleveland this season. We also told you to watch Antawn Jamison's minutes and production to see if he was still the man for the Cavs. After one game, Hickson is the man and Jamison could be forgotten. Fantasy owners are only starting him in 59 percent of leagues and that might not be enough. Hickson could be on his way for a monster breakout season.
News: According to the Akron Beacon Journal, Cavaliers coach Byron Scott announced his starting lineup for Wednesday's game against the Boston Celtics. He will go with Mo Williams, Anthony Parker, Jamario Moon, J.J. Hickson and Anderson Varejao. This means that veteran Antawn Jamison will come off the bench.
Analysis: Hickson is an interesting breakout candidate going into the season as a young, raw talent who has shown signs of promise in the past and may get more regular minutes than he ever has. He plays the same position as Jamison, but Scott has mentioned that his job is to make sure Hickson gets his minutes one way or another. There was some recent speculation that Hickson may be in Scott's doghouse due to some preseason turnover issues, but this news puts those worries to rest. He'll be worth activating in standard leagues out of the gate.
News: According to the Akron Beacon Journal, Cavaliers PF J.J. Hickson's starting job is in jeopardy after he committed five turnovers in 20 minutes Thursday against the Bucks. Coach Byron Scott doesn't think he's grasped the Princeton offense despite having all preseason to do so. ''He's one we're counting on to play a major role in what we're doing. Right now, from an offensive standpoint, he's not understanding what we're trying to do,'' Scott said. ''That's disappointing, especially as much as we go through it every day.'' Hickson's struggles have Scott debating whether to switch back to veteran Antawn Jamison for the season opener Wednesday against the Celtics. ''I'm not very confident that he'll have it down pat,'' Scott said. ''But it won't be because of a lack of effort on our end."
Analysis: Hickson has done fine statistically this preseason, averaging 14.3 points and 8.1 rebounds in eight games, but Scott says that's not the issue. ''It's just lack of focus. He wants to do it, but sometimes he's 22 years old and he comes to practice and he's not focused. This is a job and something you have to take seriously. There's nobody in that locker room that has an excuse because they have a video playbook and they have a playbook. They can go home and watch it on DVD, go home and open the book up and we're always available. So there's really no excuse. He has to get a little better and take it more seriously.'' Scott might just be trying to send a message to Hickson, but even if the 22-year-old comes off the bench, he should see enough playing time to get his share of double-doubles. He's a popular sleeper at both the forward and center positions.
News: Cavaliers F J.J. Hickson led all scorers with 22 points in Tuesday's preseason game against the Sixers. Hickson shot 11 of 16 from the floor and grabbed 11 rebounds in the 111-95 win. He played 32 minutes and also chipped in with an assist and a steal.
Analysis: With Antwan Jamison still banged up. Hickson could begin the season as a starter and could hold on to that role if he plays well to open up the season. We already tabbed him as a sleeper this season, but as a starter who could get 30-plus minutes a game, the sky could really be the limit for forward from North Carolina State. Consider him a solid late round pick on Draft Day with a ton of upside.
News: Cleveland PF J.J. Hickson could begin the season as a starter with Antawn Jamison coming off the bench, reports the Cleveland Plain-Dealer on Monday. Apparently, coach Byron Scott has settled on a starting lineup of Hickson, Mo Williams, Anthony Parker, Jamario Moon and Anderson Varejao.
Analysis: Hickson is averaging 13.7 points and 8.5 rebounds per game in the preseason over 24 minutes per game. As a starter, Hickson's Fantasy value goes way up. We already labeled him a big-time Fantasy sleeper, as a starter he could be even more than that. If he gets 30 minutes per game, he goes from sleeper to breakout candidate.
News: Cavaliers F J.J. Hickson contributed his best performance of the preseason in Thursday's game against the Spurs. He led his team with 18 points and nine rebounds in 27 minutes of action.
Analysis: New Cavaliers coach Byron Scott told the Cleveland Plain Dealer that he would like to find ways to play Hickson this season, despite the fact he plays behind one of the team's most important players in Antawn Jamison. He is going to be worth drafting as a late-round sleeper in standard 12-team formats as a result of this desire to make him a factor. He's had a couple of big stat lines so far in the preseason.
News: Cavaliers F J.J. Hickson scored 17 points off the bench in his first game of the preseason against Charlotte. He shot 5 for 13 from the field and was 7 for 10 from the foul line. Hickson also added nine points with an assist, a steal and a block. He came off the bench and played 27 minutes.
Analysis: New Cavaliers coach Byron Scott told the Cleveland Plain Dealer that he would like to find ways to play Hickson this season, despite the fact he plays behind one of the team's most important players in Antawn Jamison. He is going to be worth drafting as a late-round sleeper in standard 12-team formats as a result of this desire to make him a factor.
News: Cavaliers F J.J. Hickson scored 17 points off the bench in his first game of the preseason against Charlotte. He shot 5 for 13 from the field and was 7 for 10 from the foul line. Hickson also added nine points with an assist, a steal and a block. He came off the bench and played 27 minutes.
Analysis: New Cavaliers coach Byron Scott told the Cleveland Plain Deale that he would like to find ways to play Hickson this season, despite the fact he plays behind one of the team's most important players in Antawn Jamison. He is going to be worth drafting as a late-round sleeper in standard 12-team formats as a result of this desire to make him a factor.
News: New Cavaliers coach Byron Scott told the Cleveland Plain Dealer that he would like to find ways to play J.J. Hickson this season, despite the fact he plays behind one of the team's most important players in Antawn Jamison. "Am I going to commit to [Hickson] playing a lot of minutes? No. But do I think he will? Yeah," Scott said. "I think he's going to have a great opportunity this year to really shine and be one of the most improved players in the league." The report went on to add that Scott and team brass believe that Hickson could be ready for a "breakout" year.
Analysis: Jamison is likely to be the starter this season, but it is clear the Cavs still have big plans for Hickson. It will be up to Scott to find creative ways to get him into the mix alongside Jamison. They were able to do that last season for a month when Hickson started at center and Jamison started at power forward. But it seems like Hickson may be given a shot to start some at small forward and could eventually become a very versatile player in Fantasy leagues if that is the case. He is going to be worth drafting as a late-round sleeper in standard 12-team formats as a result of this desire to make him a factor.
News: Cleveland forward J.J. Hickson had a breakout year in 2009-10. He averaged career highs in points (8.5), rebounds (4.9) and field-goal percentage (55 percent) in 81 games. Hickson played well as a reserve big man for Cleveland throughout the year and toward the end of the season when Shaquille O'Neal (thumb) was out.
Analysis: Hickson's Fantasy value is tied to what happens to several free agents for Cleveland. O'Neal and Zydrunas Ilgauskas could leave the Cavs, as could forward LeBron James. If the centers don't return that would open more playing time for Hickson, but he thrives with the play-making ability of James. Keep an eye on what happens with Hickson, but he would be worth drafting with a late-round pick in all leagues if James is back in Cleveland and the centers are gone.
News: Cavaliers F J.J. Hickson had 14 points with 11 rebounds, two assists and a block in Sunday's game at Boston. He is averaging 13.2 points and 9.2 rebounds in his last five games.
Analysis: Hickson is also averaging 1.2 blocks over that span. He is benefiting greatly from the absence of Anderson Varejao and the injury to Shaquille O'Neal with more minutes and touches coming his way. He's a strong play as a No. 3 forward or No. 2 center in those leagues where he is eligible at the position.
News: Cleveland F J.J. Hickson scored 20 points and added nine rebounds in a win over the Hornets on Wednesday. Hickson shot 9 of 11 from the floor while adding nine rebounds and a steal. He has scored in double figures in back-to-back games.
Analysis: Hickson is averaging 11.6 points and 5.6 rebounds over his last five contests. With Zydrunas Ilgauskas coming back to the team, Hickson could see a fairly significant drop-off in production because he will be splitting minutes with Iglauskas and Anderson Varejao. Fantasy owners should consider Hickson a low-end No. 2 Fantasy center at best.
News: Center Zydrunas Ilgauskas has signed to play the rest of the season with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Coach Mike Brown said Tuesday that he will fly with the team to New Orleans later in the day and will likely play against the Hornets on Wednesday. To make room for Ilgauskas, forward Darnell Jackson was waived. Ilgauskas could eventually cut into the minutes of J.J. Hickson and Anderson Varejao.
Analysis: Ilgauskas spent his entire career in Cleveland before the trade. He is averaging 7.5 points and 5.3 rebounds this season, but with Shaquille O'Neal sidelined for the remainder of the regular season he could see a spike in minutes which could lead to some appeal as a No. 2 center in deeper leagues. He'll likely split minutes with Varejao and Hickson, which could lead to erratic production from all three players. All three will be at best No. 2 center options. Of the three, Varejao has the most value at the moment, but not by much.
News: Cleveland F J.J. Hickson scored 13 points and added eight rebounds in a win over the Pistons on Sunday. Hickson shot 6 of 10 from the floor while collecting a steal in 27 minutes. It was the third time in his last five games he has scored in double figures.
Analysis: Hickson has filled in admirably for the Cavs who have been without a true center since Zydrunas Ilgauskas was traded and Shaquille O' Neal went down with an injury. However, it appears Ilgauskas will be back on Wednesday when he signs a contract with the team. Hickson was averaging just 10 points per game and 4.4 boards over his last five games. He'll probably see a decrease in his Fantasy value and is just useful in only the deepest of leagues at this point.
News: Cavaliers F/C Anderson Varejao had 17 points with 10 rebounds and two assists in Sunday's game against Boston. It was his seconds straight double-double and third double-double in his last five games. Starter J.J. Hickson had 12 points with three rebounds against the Celtics.
Analysis: Varejao is averaging 12.0 points and 9.4 rebounds in that span. Despite coming off the bench, he is getting 30-plus minutes per game and appears to be the main beneficiary of the absence of Shaquille O'Neal. J.J. Hickson has also benefited, but Varejao has been the steadier Fantasy option.
News: Cleveland PF J.J. Hickson was awesome on Wednesday night in a win at New Jersey. Hickson has started the last two games and will keep that role going forward with Shaq out. On Wednesday, Hickson scored 20 points and grabbed 13 rebounds for a double-double. He shot 9 for 14 from the field over 27 minutes. He added two steals and a block.
Analysis: Hickson is averaging 18.5 points, 11 rebounds, 1.5 steals and 1.5 blocks in his two games as a starter. With numbers like those, he'll be worth using in the majority of Fantasy leagues as long as he's getting starter's minutes.
News: Cleveland PF J.J. Hickson, who has struggled since the team acquired Antawn Jamison, didn't struggle on Monday in a win over the Knicks. Hickson got 23 minutes and scored 17 points with nine rebounds and two blocked shots. He shot 6 for 7 from the field and went 5 for 7 from the free-throw line.
Analysis: Hickson had a fantastic game on Monday but combined to score 18 points in his previous three games with eight rebounds and just one block. Until he plays consistently, it will be hard to buy into him in Fantasy. The potential is there for him to contribute down the stretch, especially if he gains center eligibility by continuing to start at center in place of Shaq, but don't think he can turn in 17-and-9 on a regular basis if he's only getting around 23 minutes per game.
News: Cavaliers C Shaquille O'Neal (thumb) has been ruled out for Friday night's game in Toronto, according to Raptors radio analyst Eric Smith. Shaq left Thursday's game against the Celtics with a sprained thumb and did not return. Anderson Varejao and J.J. Hickson should enjoy a boost in playing time in Shaq's absence.
Analysis: Initial reports indicated that the thumb injury could be significant, but so far it is being considered a sprain. Shaq will be a very risky play for Fantasy Week 19 (March 1-7) unless the team or the player comes out and announces a return date. He could easily miss several games with this injury. Keep close tabs on his progress. Varejao will likely start at center with Hickson still starting at power forward, but seeing more minutes than he had been getting since the arrival of Antawn Jamison. Think about taking fliers on them in larger daily formats.
News: Cleveland F J.J. Hickson returned to the lineup Thursday after missing Tuesday's contest with stomach problems. Hickson scored eight minutes while adding four boards, two steals and a block in 23 minutes. It was the third straight game that Hickson scored in single digits.
Analysis: Hickson has averaged just eight points per game over his last five contests. With Antawn Jamison eating up minutes and Leon Powe returning, Hickson's Fantasy value has diminished. Fantasy owners should pay attention to see the injury to Shaquille O' Neal effects Hickson's playing time. For now, Hickson can be reserved in all leagues.
News: Cavaliers coach Mike Brown said Tuesday that J.J. Hickson will head to the bench with Antawn Jamison starting. Of course, Hickson couldn't play altogether Tuesday against the Hornets due to to gastroenteritis.
Analysis: Hickson already lost a ton of value when Jamison joined the fold. Now Cleveland has activated Leon Powe and Hickson is dealing with injury. Keep him reserved until this situation clears up for him.
News: According to the Akron Beacon Journal, Cavaliers coach Mike Brown said Tuesday that Antawn Jamison will join the starting lineup at power forward. J.J. Hickson will head to the bench. Hickson will be a game-time decision Tuesday due to gastroenteritis.
Analysis: The move is not permanent, at least not yet, but it does not make much of a difference whether or not Jamison is starting. He is still going to see the majority of the minutes at power forward and Hickson has been limited to around 15 minutes per game since Jamison's arrival. Jamison could see a small spike in minutes if Hickson sits, but that is all. Leon Powe may be activated in order to fill those 15 minutes or so.
News: Cavaliers F Antawn Jamison had 19 points and eight rebounds in Sunday's game in Orlando. He fouled out after 31 minutes on the floor in his second game with his new team. Jamison had struggled in his first game with the Cavs, scoring just two points while going 0 for 12 from the field. J.J. Hickson got the start at power forward again over Jamison, but had only four points and two rebounds in 13 minutes.
Analysis: Jamison bounced back Sunday and will allow Fantasy owners to start him again with confidence heading into Fantasy Week 18 (Feb. 22-28). He has not started either of his first two games with the Cavs, but did start the second half with the first unit Sunday. That is more bad news for Hickson, who while he may remain a starter will see a dramatic reduction in minutes and touches. That makes him somebody to avoid in Fantasy right now.
News: Newly acquired Cavaliers F Antawn Jamison did not play in Thursday's game against Denver. Jamison was traded to Cleveland as part of a three-team deal Wednesday and was in the arena Thursday after participating in an introductory press conference. J.J. Hickson got the start against the Nuggets, scoring 14 points in 30 minutes.
Analysis: The Cavaliers next play Friday night in Toronto and Jamison should be able to make his debut then. Jamison's numbers could take a slight hit in Cleveland as opposed to what he was doing in Washington, considering the team's depth inside. In fact, coach Mike Brown said in Thursday's press conference that he is not sure whether or not he will start Jamison over Hickson. But while Hickson could remain a starter, Jamison will get the lion's share of the minutes at the four and that likely means Hickson's production will be spotty -- too spotty for Fantasy use.
News: Cleveland F J.J. Hickson scored 20 points, including 16 in the first half as the Cavaliers defeated the Magic 115-106 on Thursday. Hickson finished the game shooting 9 of 14 from the field while adding four rebounds.
Analysis: Hickson has scored in double figures in four of his last five games and has averaged 13 points per game during that span. The 20-point performance was his first since Jan. 27. With Hickson increasing his performance in February, he provides some options in the deepest of Fantasy leagues.
News: Cleveland F J.J. Hickson scored 10 points as the Cavaliers defeated the Knicks 113-106 on Saturday. Hickson played just 15 minutes while shooting 5 of 7 from the field. He also added five rebounds.
Analysis: Hickson has scored in double figures in his last three games and is averaging 9.6 points per game over his last fives games. Combine that with a nearly six rebound per game average over his last five and Hickson shows some Fantasy use in the deepest of leagues.
News:J.J. Hickson continues to play well for the Cavaliers, scoring 12 points and grabbing five rebounds against the Heat on Thursday. It was his second straight game in double-figures. In 24 minutes he added one steal and two blocks.
Analysis: Hickson is playing well lately, averaging 12.2 points and 6.4 rebounds over his last five games, scoring in double figures three times. He is worth picking up in the 91 percent of Fantasy leagues he's currently available in, as he's becoming a viable Fantasy option for deeper leagues.
News:J.J. Hickson continues to play well for the Cavaliers, scoring 12 points and grabbing five rebounds against the Heat on Thursday. It was his second straight game in double-figures. In 24 minutes he added one steal and two blocks.
Analysis: Hickson is playing well lately, averaging 12.2 points and 6.4 rebounds over his last five games, scoring in double figures three times. He is worth picking up in the 91 percent of Fantasy leagues he's currently available in, as he's becoming a viable Fantasy option for deeper leagues.
News: Cavaliers PF J.J. Hickson had a solid night against the Grizzlies Tuesday, finishing with 15 points and eight rebounds in 23 minutes. He shot 6 of 12 from the field and added one assist and two steals.
Analysis: While Hickson is playing well, averaging 9.8 points and 5.6 rebounds over his past five games, he remains a non-factor in anything but the deepest of Fantasy leagues.
News: Cleveland PF J.J. Hickson recorded a new career high for points on Wednesday as he scored 23 in 25 minutes in a win over Minnesota. Hickson shot 8 for 10 from the field and went 7 of 7 on the free-throw line. He added eight rebounds and a block.
Analysis: Cleveland coach Mike Brown said after the game Wednesday that he doesn't expect this kind of game out of Hickson and neither do we. He failed to even score over 13 minutes in the last game the Cavs played at Miami and he really only has low-end Fantasy value. He clearly has the ability to fill a stat sheet, however. Keep that in mind for the future.
News: Cavs PF J.J. Hickson recorded his first double-double of the season Thursday, scoring 11 points and grabbing 14 rebounds against the Lakers. The 14 boards were a career-high for Hickson, and only the second time this year he's finished in double digits.
Analysis: Despite starting, averages of 6.5 points and 3.9 rebounds make Hickson a non-factor in anything but the deepest of Fantasy leagues.
News: Cavaliers F J.J. Hickson had just four points to go with six rebounds and an assist Thursday night in Utah. He started once again at power forward, but played only 16 minutes.
Analysis: Hickson continues to start, but he is merely a place-filler in the first unit. He had a few decent games that earned him the starting role earlier this season, but has since been nothing more than an afterthought.
News: Cleveland PF J.J. Hickson managed four points and six boards as a starter on Saturday at New Jersey. Hickson played 15 minutes and shot 2 of 9 from the field. He added one block.
Analysis: Hickson is averaging around 16 minutes per game over his last five contests and is scoring 4.8 points with 3.6 rebounds per game over that span. Those numbers are under his season average, but only slightly. He starts for Cleveland but he just does not produce enough for Fantasy use in anything but the deepest of leagues.
News: Cleveland PF J.J. Hickson scored in double figures for the first time in five games on Wednesday in a win at Philly. Hickson dropped 10 points and grabbed four rebounds. He shot 4 of 5 as a starter over 18 minutes.
Analysis: Hickson is averaging 6.6 points and 4.0 rebounds per game over his last five and is doing little else that would make Fantasy owners happy. He is a very low-end option not worth using in anything but the deepest of Fantasy leagues.
News: Cavaliers PF J.J. Hickson, whose scoring has declined since the return of Shaquille O'Neal, had 13 points Wednesday against the Suns, putting him in double figures for the first time in four games. He also had eight rebounds.
Analysis: Hickson starts for the Cavaliers, but he loses minutes to Anderson Varejao and Zydrunas Ilgauskas off the bench. He might have the potential for 10 points and five rebounds per game, but that's not enough to make you run out and grab him off the waiver wire in most leagues.
News: Cavaliers PF J.J. Hickson had a career-high 21 points Tuesday against the Warriors, taking advantage of injuries to Shaquille O'Neal (shoulder) and Anderson Varejao (hip) to set a career high for the third straight game. He also had nine rebounds. Still, coach Mike Brown was concerned with his mental lapses. "I saw when he didn't box (Vladimir) Radmanovic out, and Radmanovic got the rebound and scored it," Brown said. "He's got to do better in that area."
Analysis: Those mental lapses explain why Hickson isn't normally a starter despite his productivity. Still, he has opened some eyes with this performance and will likely see an increase in minutes going forward. He's worth using as a stopgap option in deeper leagues.
News: Cavaliers PF J.J. Hickson, making his third consecutive start, had a career-high 18 points at Miami on Thursday. He also had four rebounds and one assist in 31 minutes, shooting 7 for 9 from the field.
Analysis: The Cavaliers have made Hickson the starter over Anderson Varejao, but he normally gets minimal minutes and is averaging only 11 points as a starter. Don't bother adding him except in deeper leagues.
News: Cavaliers PF J.J. Hickson, who played a minimal role off the bench last season, didn't do anything more substantial in the season opener Tuesday against the Celtics. He played six minutes, recording one steal.
Analysis: Hickson probably won't get enough minutes off the bench to make an impact in Fantasy. Leave him on waivers.
News: The Cleveland Cavaliers exercised their third-year option on forward J.J. Hickson on Monday. Hickson's extension keeps him under contract with the Cavaliers through the 2010-11 season.
Analysis: Hickson is not considered a viable Fantasy option. In 62 games as a rookie, he averaged 4.0 points and 2.7 rebounds in 11.4 minutes per game.
News:LeBron James and teammates Darnell Jackson and Coby Karl have tested positive for Influenza A, and are being treated as if they have the H1N1 virus. H1N1, also known as swine flu, is a strain of Influenza A. Though the Cavaliers have not gotten back H1N1 test results on the three, the team said it is being proactive in treating players and the traveling party to Texas. Six Cleveland players have had flu-like symptoms. Guard Andre Barrett and forward J.J. Hickson are not making the Texas trip.
Analysis: Obviously, this is a big deal when it comes to LeBron James -- the best player in Fantasy hoops. As far as the rest, they have no real Fantasy value to speak of. We hope them well, but still advise Fantasy owners to stay away from them.
News: Cleveland PF J.J. Hickson is expected to miss all of the playoffs with a back injury. He was likely not going to play, even if healthy.
Analysis: The Cavs have a project in Hickson and don't really need him this season as they advance in the playoffs. They don't want to risk aggravating the injury for next season, though he has no real Fantasy value as of now.
News: Cleveland PF J.J. Hickson (back) did not play in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Magic and is not expected to play in the series.
Analysis: The Cavs have a project in Hickson and don't really need him this season as they advance in the playoffs. They don't want to risk aggravating the injury for next season, though he has no real Fantasy value as of now.
News: Cleveland PF J.J. Hickson (back) did not play in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Magic and is not expected to play in the series.
Analysis: The Cavs have a project in Hickson and don't really need him this season as they advance in the playoffs. They don't want to risk aggravating the injury for next season, though he has no real Fantasy value as of now.
News: Cleveland PF J.J. Hickson (back) did not play in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Magic and is not expected to play in the series.
Analysis: The Cavs have a project in Hickson and don't really need him this season as they advance in the playoffs. They don't want to risk aggravating the injury for next season, though he has no real Fantasy value as of now.
News: Cleveland PF J.J. Hickson (back) did not play in the Eastern Conference semifinal series against the Atlanta Hawks, in which the Cavs swept in four games to advance to the Eastern Conference finals against either Orlando or Boston. Hickson is not expected to play in that series, either.
Analysis: The Cavs have a project in Hickson and don't really need him this season as they advance in the playoffs. They don't want to risk aggravating the injury for next season, though he has no real Fantasy value as of now.
News: Cleveland PF J.J. Hickson (back) did not play, as expected, in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Hawks on Saturday. Cleveland is up 3-0 in the series.
Analysis: The Cavs have a project in Hickson and don't really need him this season as they advance in the playoffs. They don't want to risk aggravating the injury for next season, though he has no real Fantasy value as of now.
News: Cleveland PF J.J. Hickson remained out of commission with a back issue on Thursday for Game 2 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Hawks. Hickson is doubtful for the second-round series.
Analysis: Do not expect Hickson to hit the floor during this playoff run as the Cavs don't want to aggravate the prospect's back issue. He has no real Fantasy value at this point.
News: Cleveland PF J.J. Hickson remained out of commission with a back issue on Tuesday for Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Hawks. Hickson is doubtful for the second-round series.
Analysis: The Cavs have a project in Hickson and don't really need him this season as they advance in the playoffs. They don't want to risk aggravating the injury for next season, though he has no real Fantasy value as of now.
News: Cavaliers F J.J. Hickson (back) did not play in Game 4 Sunday at Detroit, as expected. He remains questionable for the team's upcoming second-round series.
Analysis: The Cavs may not use Hickson at all in the playoffs as they don't want to risk aggravating the 20-year-old project's back injury. He has had no real Fantasy value to this point in his career.
News: Cleveland PF J.J. Hickson did not play in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference quarterfinals against Detroit with a back problem. He's not expected to play in Game 4, either and hasn't played in the playoffs yet.
Analysis: Hickson likely won't be back until at least the second round of the playoffs and the Cavs may not use him at all as they don't want to risk aggravating the 20-year-old project's back injury. He had little Fantasy value heading into the playoffs and can be cut in all leagues.
News: Cleveland PF J.J. Hickson did not play in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference quarterfinals against Detroit with a back problem. He's not expected to play in Game 3, either.
Analysis: Hickson won't return for the first round of the playoffs and perhaps longer because the Cavs will want to be extra sensitive with their 20-year-old development project. The rookie from N.C. State had little to no Fantasy value before getting injured and can now be cut in seasonal formats.
News: The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports that J.J. Hickson will miss 2-3 weeks with a back injury. After complaining of lingering soreness in his lower back, Hickson had an X-ray and an MRI scan taken at the Cleveland Clinic on Wednesday that revealed a stress reaction, a somewhat common repetitive-motion injury. The Cavs will shut Hickson down for at least the next two to three weeks before having him re-examined.
Analysis: That timetable will probably knock him out of the first round of the playoffs and perhaps longer because the Cavs will want to be extra sensitive with their 20-year-old development project. The rookie from N.C. State had little to no Fantasy value before getting injured and can now be cut in seasonal formats.
News: Cleveland Cavaliers rookie forward J.J. Hickson will miss two to three weeks with a sore lower back. Hickson underwent an MRI on Wednesday and the club said the test revealed a "stress reaction" in his back. He has been advised to get rest and treatment.
Analysis: Hickson has had his minutes reduced in recent weeks as fellow rookie Darnell Jackson has gotten more time in coach Mike Brown's rotation. The rookie from N.C. State had little to no Fantasy value before getting injured and can now be cut in seasonal formats.
News: Cleveland PF J.J. Hickson scored 13 points and grabbed seven rebounds in a loss to Orlando on Thursday. Hickson played 24 minutes off the bench and shot 6-of-9 from the floor. He added a steal and a block.
Analysis: Hickson has scored in double figures in three of his last four games and has really picked up the slack of late. He's averaging nine points per game over his last five and that comes with five boards, both numbers well above his season averages. He still only gets about 20 minutes per night but he's playing a cut above his norm right now so consider him for the deeper leagues.
News: Cavaliers PF J.J. Hickson played 18 minutes on Thursday in a loss at Chicago and failed to score a single point. He was 0-for-1 from the field with two rebounds and a block.
Analysis: Hickson is averaging six points and four rebounds per game over his last five and is playing around 20 minutes per night. His production is very limited and that makes him only worth thinking about using in the deepest of leagues -- think 30-team leagues.
News: Cleveland PF J.J. Hickson had 13 points and six boards in a 111-81 rout of the Bobcats on Wednesday. It's the second time in three games played that Hickson has scored 13 points.
Analysis: Hickson has been the subject of trade interest as of late, but it's hard to determine whether the Cavs want to keep him or dish him. Wait and see, but don't bother owning him yet.
News:The Sports Xchange notes that teams are inquiring about Cleveland PF J.J. Hickson. The Cavs realize they might have something special in Hickson and plan on keeping him and letting him develop at his own pace. Once he gets "it," look out.
Analysis: Hickson is currently not worth owning in Fantasy unless you are in a dynasty league and see him as a long-term keeper. He's averaging 3.3 points per game and 1.8 rebounds this season and seeing very limited time. Still, it's worth nothing for the future that the Cavs think very highly of the former N.C. State Wildcat.
News: According to The Sports Xchange, F Darnell Jackson might have displaced F J.J. Hickson in Coach Mike Brown's rotation. "He has been playing well," coach Mike Brown said. "I wanted to see him with (the second team). It could last a month or I could change (tonight)."
Analysis: Jackson has a season-high of six points. He and Hickson aren't worth owning in Fantasy. Leave them on waivers.
News: Cavaliers rookie PF J.J. Hickson got to play a career-high 31 minutes in a blowout victory against the Thunder on Wednesday. He finished with 14 points, six rebounds and four blocks -- all career highs.
Analysis: Hickson likely won't play this much during tighter games, but he played 18 minutes in the Cavaliers' last game and might earn more minutes with performances like this one. He has upside, but he remains a low-end Fantasy F for now.
News: Cavaliers rookie PF J.J. Hickson played only two minutes off the bench Wednesday against the Bulls. He had four points and one rebound. He's averaging only 4.8 minutes through his first four games.
Analysis: Hickson has some talent, but he's a bit of a project at this stage of his career. Don't bother with him except in the deepest of Fantasy leagues.
News: The Cleveland Cavaliers signed first-round draft pick J.J. Hickson on Thursday. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Cleveland selected the 19-year-old Hickson with the 19th pick in the NBA draft.
Analysis: The 6-foot-9 forward played just one season at North Carolina State before turning pro. He'll be a little bit of a project early on in his NBA career and won't be worth selecting in most Fantasy formats.
