The complete rebuild of the Cleveland Cavaliers saw another brick replaced today when the Cavs sent former first round pick J.J. Hickson to the Sacramento Kings for forward Omri Casspi and a protected future first round pick. Casspi became the first Israeli-born player to play in the NBA when he was drafted by the Kings two years ago in the 2009 NBA Draft.
"Starting a new path in my journey and I'm so excited to be a Cavalier.", said Casspi via his Twitter account. "I'm ready for the challenge and can't wait to get to know my teammates and my new home. Great things are ahead, Cavs Fans!!! Thank you everyone for the support."
Casspi averaged a little over 9 points per game last season for the Kings, but didn't seem to fit with the type of team the Kings were trying to build. For the Cavs, Casspi provides the Wine and Gold a true small forward - only Christian Eyenga returns - that can stretch the floor and hit some outside shots.
The departure of Hickson ends a roller coaster ride for the former North Carolina State star. Once a prized commodity, Hickson has failed to live up to expectations under former head coach Mike Brown and current Cavs head coach Byron Scott - both have had to ride Hickson for his court awareness and defensive intensity.
Now both pplayers get a fresh start, and for Hickson, perhaps a new contract. The Cavaliers were making it increasingly known that they had no intention of paying Hickson big bucks, and by drafting Tristan Thompson last week the Cavaliers let it be known that Hickson was the odd-man out.