The emerging ruckman managed just six games in his second year at the club due to varying ailments including a corked quad, a hot spot in his foot and now a right knee injury.
"Tom has been experiencing knee tendonitis for some time and will be assessed by a specialist in coming weeks, but he won't play again in 2014," St Kilda Head of Football Chris Pelchen told SAINTS.com.au.
And while surgery remains the 'likely' option according to club physio Andrew Wallis, further medical advice will be sought before the 30-gamer goes under the knife.
"You're always a little flat when you find out your year is over. It gives me an opportunity to really attack the 2015 pre-season. I didn't want to try to sneak two games in at the end of this year in case I jeopardised next year," Hickey said.
"It's been an on-going issue for a couple of years and I've just managed it. This year it's just gotten worse so I could probably play on but I haven't been able to jump or run very well lately."
The 23-year-old's best performance this season was undoubtedly in round two, when his three first-half goals helped propel the Saints to a hard-fought victory over the Giants at Etihad Stadium.
Yet since then, injuries have curtailed his season, much to the frustration of the ex-Gold Coast player.
"It's been a disappointing year," he admitted.
"Expectation vs reality: I didn't really meet the standards I set myself. But I think I proved to myself earlier in the year that I could hold down a number one ruck spot. It's given me good belief that if given the opportunity, I can lead the rucks again next season."
Meanwhile, Wallis expects Sean Dempster and Sam Gilbert to be available for selection ahead of St Kilda's clash with the Gold Coast after the bye.
Click here for the full injury list.
