Anderson Varejao Lost for Season, J.J. Hickson Rises in Fantasy Basketball

Down goes Anderson Varejao. The curly-headed beast in the post for the Cleveland Cavaliers will reportedly be NBA season" target="_blank">lost for the remainder of the 2010-11 NBA season with a torn tendon in his right ankle.

This is disappointing news for Varejao and the Cavaliers, as Varejao was enjoying solid success as Cleveland's starting center for much of the season, while posting nearly a double-double average of points and rebounds on the season.

From an organizational standpoint, it's unfortunate to lose a solid talent who was as hard of a worker and a great team player, but at 8-29, it also might be for the best for a young team with several pieces (players) that could be on the move.

Fantasy Impact: Outside of wins and losses, however, this major injury has everything to do with fantasy basketball and everything to do with the future of J.J. Hickson.

While he's endured inconsistent minutes and production on the season, the talented Hickson looks to be the new starter at center in replace of Varejao, while the 22-year-old big man already put up 23 points and 17 rebounds in his first start since Varejao went down.

Hickson is averaging just under 11 points and 5.5 rebounds on the season, already a moderate fantasy line. With his increased role and ability to rebound and score the ball, he should quickly skyrocket up the ranks in terms of fantasy stock, despite playing for a weak team.

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