Cleveland Cavaliers Should Have Kept J.J. Hickson Over Omri Casspi: Fan Take

J.J. Hickson had his flaws, but in no way is Omri Casspi a trade up. Casspi almost seems afraid and like a deer in the headlights when he is on the court. He certainly does not deserve to be a starter. I am a Cleveland Cavaliers' fan and will certainly root for him when he is out there, but I also cringe because he is just not doing well this season.

The truth is, Casspi would not start with any other team. He is not strong enough or aggressive enough. J.J. Hickson at least gave his all every game. Then, there was the undeniable chemistry between Hickson and Jamison. Casspi just kind of looks like the new kid in class who is awkward and has no self-esteem.

I respect coach Byron Scott, but completely disagree with him about Casspi. "I think Omri's doing a pretty good job," said coach Scott. "I think in a lot of situations like this, when you get a new player and he's in a new system, sometimes it takes six months to a year before he finally adjusts."

Casspi is having his worst season stats wise. He is averaging 7.8 points per game, 1.4 assists per game and 3.2 rebounds per game. These are simply not the stats of a starter averaging 22.8 minutes per game.

With the Sacramento Kings, Hickson is averaging 5.2 points per game, 5.4 rebounds per game and 0.6 assists per game with an average of 19.7 minutes per game. Now, in his last season with the Cavs (2010-11), Hickson was averaging 13.8 points per game, 1.1 assists per game and 8.7 rebounds per game with an average of 28.2 minutes per game.

When compared to Casspi, I think it is safe to say that Hickson was the better deal. I would love to see Casspi get better and simply change the minds of everyone who does not care for him on the court. However, I just do not see it happening. Hickson is 23 years old and has a lot of great years ahead of him. Too bad these years will not be with the Cavs.

R. Elizabeth C. Kitchen was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio and still lives there. She was raised a Cavs' fan and has remained loyal through all of the teams ups and downs. She remains confident that the Cavs will bring home a championship at some point in her life. Follow Rose on Twitter @Rose_Kitchen

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