In a strategic move during the AFL Trade Period, St Kilda and the Brisbane Lions have completed a pick swap that could facilitate the transfer of star midfielder Jack Macrae to the Saints. The deal sees both clubs adjusting their draft positions to better align with their recruitment goals and player acquisition strategies.
Details of the Pick Swap
- St Kilda Receives:
- Picks: No.32 and No.45 (from Brisbane Lions)
- Brisbane Lions Receive:
- Pick: No.27 (St Kilda’s second-round pick)
This exchange allows both clubs to reposition themselves in the upcoming AFL Draft, with St Kilda now holding picks that could be instrumental in securing desired players.
Implications for Jack Macrae’s Potential Move
The acquisition of pick No.32 positions St Kilda to potentially negotiate a trade with the Western Bulldogs for Jack Macrae. Despite being contracted for three more years, Macrae requested a move to St Kilda last month after playing 19 games in the recent season, including four as a substitute.
By offering pick No.32 as part of a trade package, the Saints increase their chances of securing the talented midfielder, who could significantly bolster their midfield depth and experience.
Club Strategies and Future Planning
St Kilda’s Perspective
St Kilda supporters have expressed optimism about the pick swap. One fan commented:
“From our point of view, it’s a good move if we keep the second-rounder. Once academy selections go through, it means we only move back one spot for a pick in the 40s.”
The Saints are also mindful of matching bids for their Next Generation Academy prospects, Adrian Cole and Lennox Hoffman, during the November draft. The additional picks provide the flexibility needed to secure these young talents.
Brisbane Lions’ Motivation
The Lions’ decision to trade picks may initially seem puzzling, as they lose draft points in the exchange. However, their strategy is focused on accumulating points to match bids for highly touted prospects:
- Levi Ashcroft (father-son selection)
- Sam Marshall (Academy prospect)
By acquiring St Kilda’s second-round pick (No.27), Brisbane gains valuable points under the AFL’s Draft Value Index system to secure these young players.
“We know we are bringing in another pick for someone like [Harry] Sharp and can only take so many picks to the draft for pick one. So, if we get pick 49 from Melbourne for Sharp, it nets out an additional 59 points for the Lions’ draft plans.”
Fan Reactions and Analysis
The pick swap has sparked discussions among fans and analysts regarding its impact on both clubs. Some are questioning Brisbane’s approach:
“Why are the Lions doing this? They just lost over 200 draft points,” a Hawthorn supporter noted.
Others see the logic in the Lions’ strategy to secure their Academy talents, while St Kilda fans are generally positive about the move and its potential to bring Macrae to the Saints.
What’s Next for Jack Macrae?
LAUNCESTON, AUSTRALIA – AUGUST 13: Jack Macrae of the Bulldogs and Conor Nash of the Hawks in action during the 2023 AFL Round 22 match between the Hawthorn Hawks and the Western Bulldogs at University of Tasmania Stadium on August 13, 2023 in Launceston, Australia. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)
Should the Saints successfully negotiate a trade with the Western Bulldogs using pick No.32, Jack Macrae could don the St Kilda colours next season. His addition would provide a significant boost to the Saints’ midfield, bringing experience and skill to the lineup.
Conclusion
The pick swap between St Kilda and the Brisbane Lions is a calculated move by both clubs to achieve their respective objectives:
- St Kilda aims to acquire Jack Macrae and secure their NGA prospects.
- Brisbane Lions focus on accumulating draft points to secure Levi Ashcroft and Sam Marshall.
Stay tuned for more updates on AFL trade news and player movements. What are your thoughts on the pick swap and the potential move of Jack Macrae to St Kilda?
