Denver Nuggets Power Forward J.J. Hickson Suspended Five Games
By Andrew Dill
Nov 27, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Denver Nuggets forward J.J. Hickson (7) against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center. The Nuggets defeated the Timberwolves 117-110. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
According to Christopher Dempsey over at The Denver Post, Denver Nuggets power forward J.J. Hickson has reportedly been suspended five games for violating the NBA’s Anti-Drug policy. As Dempsey notes, the suspension is tied to recreational drugs.
J.J.’s suspension will start immediately once Denver opens up their regular-season opener. His suspension lasts until Nov. 7th, missing games against the Detroit Pistons, Oklahoma City Thunder, Sacramento Kings (back-to-back), and the Cleveland Cavaliers in that order.
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Hickson, 26, was a key role player during his first year as a member of the Denver Nuggets. Although his tore his ACL Mar. 19th against the Dallas Mavericks. Hickson went on to average 11.8 points on 50.8% percent shooting, collecting 9.2 rebounds (team-high), and 0.7 blocks in 69 games played.
The suspension for Hickson means increased playing time for forwards Kenneth Faried and Darrell Arthur at the power forward position. Can’t forget about center JaVale McGee as well who is coming back after suffering a stress fracture, playing in just five regular season games. McGee will have to prove to the team and himself that he is worth the contract extension he received a few years back.
The Denver Nuggets open up their preseason schedule Oct. 6th against the Los Angeles Lakers at the Valley View Casino Center, located in San Diego, California. Tip-off is scheduled for 10:00 PM EST, 8:00 PM MST.