Draft Expert PMBangers' (and ‘friends’) 2022 Draft Board

[Stamos]

I'd say Allan and Busslinger are good chances as well, with Hollands and Jefferson having traits that'd suit some clubs in there too, so not locked in but a good chance it's out of that lot

Who do you reckon might take Hollands ahead of Carlton?

 

[bluesDeluxe]

McMullin I have in my top 40, he probably didn't light up the National Champs as much as I was expecting given how impressive he'd been in the APS, NAB League and trial games, but he brings a lot to a small forward role and has pushed up onto the wing later in the season as well. Clean user, good defensively and got some pace which are all ticks for me, but seems more likely the be a later selection at this stage. I could see sides like the Bulldogs, Carlton, St Kilda going for him in the 30's though given the evenness of that range

Anderson and Edmends, and it pains me to say it, I just don't really rate, neither have standout AFL level traits that make me say 'yeah I'd take a punt on that'. Edmends I think is more likely than Anderson if a club really wants a traditional winger type, but he's not quick and he doesn't have outstanding endurance, so there's quite a few better options out there, or even players currently playing other roles that could fill there

Cheers mate , appreciate the response

 

[PMBangers]

Who do you reckon might take Hollands ahead of Carlton?

No one in particular really, just a hunch that he'd have fans given his work rate and well rounded game

 

[Headless]

Nice work, Bangers.

I've never seen any of them play, but a KPF sounds pleasing.

 

[Rusty Beam]

boy am I hoping there's no pick trades between now and Tuesday that ruins all of this work!

Now before we get into it, I really need to stress that this is based on what I think will happen, draft positions here aren't necessarily a reflection on how I rate the talent order this year, to be perfectly honest there's some guys in this phantom going way too high and way too low in my opinion. Some of it is well informed, some of it is based on other reliable rumours, some of it is pure guess work based on what I perceive a clubs needs as, and at the end of the day none of it matters come the actual draft, because I don't work for a club and like everyone else am just putting names to random numbers/ clubs

Anyway, lets get into it xx

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Pick 1 - GWS - Aaron Cadman
GWV Rebels | VIC Country
Tall Forward
195 cm 91 kg
Snapshot; The leading Key Forward in this years pool, Cadman has earnt some lofty comparisons in terms of his play style, with Jeremy Cameron being the most popular one due to how much of the footy he accumulates and how hard he works to create up the ground as well as inside 50. Cadman really comes across as a safe KPF selection with his only notable weakness for the role being his set shot conversion, but his work rate, ground level work and marking are all top class, giving him a good platform to impact in all aspects of the game, not just inside 50

Rationale; Seems pretty much locked in at this point with GWS in desperate need of some reinforcement for their tall forward stocks, and the draft being their primary method of list building, they'll almost certainly reach for Cadman given that need and the go-home risk of other top prospects in the range. On top of all that, the fact that Cadman is physically ready to impact next year, probably not as a main target mind you, is a real boost to a side that struggles with getting their best KPF in Hogan on the park consistently, and the others suffering from being inconsistent or just not up to standard

Other considerations; The only other option for Pick 1 is to bid on Will Ashcroft, which isn't something GWS traditionally do without a reason other than "make other teams pay", he doesn't fit a list need which I think is the main factor here, but the deal for Pick 15 did seem to favour GWS a little bit so may have some sort of agreement there. Plus Northern Academy sides look out for each other where they can

Pick 2 - Brisbane (Matched Bid) - Will Ashcroft
Sandringham Dragons | VIC Metro
Balanced Midfielder
181 cm 78 kg
Snapshot; The most dominate player in the pool, and arguable ever in the NAB League, there's literally nothing else Ashcroft could've done this year to push his case as the best player in the class. He's won nearly every award he's eligible for, impressed at VFL level and remained nothing but level headed throughout. A consistent threat in the midfield, there's little flaws to Ashcroft's game and it's not out of the realms of possibility that he'll have a bigger impact than Nick Daicos next year given his play style and more readymade frame, I could see him lining up in the centre square in Round 1 alongside Dunkley and Neale.

Rationale; Brisbane have made the right pick trading moves to allow them to match a bid on Ashcroft and will likely make some live pick trades the night of to avoid going into a major deficit when matching Fletcher, there's nothing that will see either end up in other colours

Brisbane use picks 34, 35, 36 and 38, leaving them with a surplus of 17 points

Pick 3 - North Melbourne - George Wardlaw
Oakleigh Chargers | VIC Metro
Inside Midfielder
182 cm 80 kg
Snapshot; If there was a chance someone would dethrone Ashcroft this year, it was with Wardlaw, and it can be argued that he's still the top prospect given his performances early in the year and the traits he has. Whilst the hamstring hiccups will have caused concern for some, even with that slight risk Wardlaw's positives make it difficult to overlook him with a top pick, especially for a team that recently lost their future contested bull. Wardlaw ticks pretty much every box for a contested midfielder; strong in the contest, athletic, defensively minded and clean with the footy, but also is able to impact on the outside when forced into those positions, however I doubt a club is going to try and put him in that role too often

Rationale; As stated in the snapshot, they've just lost JHF who was billed to be their star contested bull for a decade, so bringing in someone of that quality in the midfield is a hard opportunity to pass up. Even though he is a little small compared to what modern midfielders are becoming, his A+ competiveness more than makes up for it, along with his willingness to throw himself at opposition and ball alike. He'll get early opportunities if he really is over the Hamstring complaints, and despite limited exposure in other roles he's got the skill set to impact anywhere.

Pick 4 - North Melbourne - Harry Sheezel
Sandringham Dragons | VIC Metro
General Forward
185 cm 80 kg
Snapshot; Arguably the best and most effective user of the footy in the class, Sheezel is an invaluable asset in the front half for any team he's part of, with his dynamic style allowing him to wear all sorts of different caps within the 'small forward' role. He's strong above head and at ground level, evasive enough to get around opponents to slot a goal but smart enough to know when to do it, he possess everything that anyone is looking for in a forward half player except for top level athleticism, but even that aspect has been overblown a bit.

Rationale; North's interest in Sheezel has been known for quite a while, even prior to trading down it seems like he was always their guy at the top of the order. Players like Toby Greene, Charlie Cameron, Tyson Stengle, etc. that are reliable as smaller targets but also able to impact at ground level have proved to be worth their weight in gold, and whilst Sheezel doesn't share all their traits he makes up for it with his supreme disposal. Although I think he's a 'set and forget' up forward, his skills translate to every role on the ground, so if North feel they need someone in the midfield or backline as well Sheezel could fill in pretty easily, another one that'll have early opportunities

Considerations; The only other player I can realistically see North taking with these picks is Elijah Tsatas, but I don't think they're going to move from the combo of Sheezel and Wardlaw between now and the draft unless they get an extremely compelling trade offer.

Pick 5 - Essendon - Bailey Humphrey
Gippsland Power | VIC Country
Inside Midfielder/ General Forward
185 cm 86 kg
Snapshot; Even with a mid season break due to injury, Humphrey has pushed up from being 'stiff to miss out on the Vic Country Hub' to an almost guaranteed Top 10 selection. With the rise in prominence of players that can act as top class on ballers and as forward 50 targets when resting it's not hard to see why Humphrey is being so sort after, with a strong contested game and burst speed in the centre, and ridiculously good contested mark up forward, Humphrey is going to be one that'll hurt opposition in either role in the long run. I also think his disposal quality has been severely undersold recently, his goal kicking is obviously an area of improvement but I do believe his disposal in general play is pretty good for a player winning so much of it at the coalface

Rationale; More than anything Essendon need some physicality in their midfield, and Essendon fans continue to scream about getting a bigger body in there, and Humphrey fits the bill. We've also seen how much of a game changer Stringer can be for them when on song, so bringing in someone that can act as an understudy for a few years will be an attractive prospect. No one player is an immediate fix, but selecting Humphrey is a step in the right direction, and like those taken before him he's physically ready for AFL footy, with his endurance the only thing I can see holding him back

Considerations; Like every year there's a lot of players being linked to Essendon, trying to wade through it all isn't easy, but I ended up tossing the coin between Reuben Ginbey, Elijah Tsatas and Mattaes Phillipou here for them as well. Ultimately I just believe that Humphrey is the most likely of that group given Dodo is a massive fan.

Pick 6 - Gold Coast Suns - Reuben Ginbey
East Perth | WA
Inside Midfielder/ General Defender
189 cm 82 kg
Snapshot; Arguably the biggest bolter of the season, Ginbey burst onto the scene, and draft boards, after his Round 1 debut with the East Perth senior side, looking more than capable at the level with bigger bodies and more developed footy skills, matching it with some of the best forwards the WAFL has to offer. What's really piqued clubs interest with Ginbey is his high level athleticism, contested game and potential as a midifelder, with clubs looking for players with speed and endurance to match the increasing demands of AFL running, Ginbey fits the bill well with his skillset.

Rationale; What do Gold Coast even really need apart from Key Defenders and some luck with injury? Not much imo, so taking a punt on a guy who at best could be an A grade contested midfielder, or at worst could fill in as a third tall defender capable of locking down tall or small opponents isn't a bad way to go about it. I still have questions as to whether he'll end up a full time midfielder, but the more I think about it the more the pick makes sense, with the top end of Ginbey's ceiling essentially a perfect picture of what a modern day contested midfielder should be.

Considerations; There's really not much else that will happen here, if Ginbey's gone to Essendon then perhaps Bailey Humphrey is the one to try and fill a similar long term role? There has been interest in Jhye Clark as well so that looms as a possible surprise

Pick 7 - Hawthorn - Elijah Tsatas
Oakleigh Chargers | VIC Metro
Balanced Midfielder/ Wing
186 cm 79 kg
Snapshot; A pick 1 contender at the start of the year, Tsatas has gradually become one of the most polarising prospects in the top rung of the class. His best traits are ridiculously eye catching, with his athleticism and ability to translate it into every situation the main thing catching the eye, like Ginbey that speed is something clubs are always looking to add to their midfield mix. A strong accumulator and flexible within his role in the midfield, he gives whichever club takes him options, with no decision really effecting his output.

Rationale; I mean, Hawthorn need midfielders and it's hard to see them passing up one that brings something so different to their current mix. I know the Hawks faithful are split on Mackenzie/ Phillipou/ Clark/ Tsatas/ Humphrey, and it's hard to see this pick not being one of them, but ultimately I just sense that if Tsatas does fall here come draft night they won't pass him up even with the question marks. It's a really hard talent v fit debate here, Tsatas is, in my opinion pretty clearly the top talent left here, but Hawthorn's drafting last year indicates to me he's not really the type they're looking for, with more emphasis on footskills and workrate

Considerations; Jhye Clark and Cam Mackenzie are the main ones here, both fit Hawks drafting profile under Mitchell more and for that reason this is the pick I most expect to get wrong from the Top 7

Pick 8 - Geelong - Jedd Busslinger
East Perth | WA
Tall Defender
196 cm 82 kg
Snapshot; Just clearly the best tall defender in the pool, if it weren't for a Shoulder Injury ending his season early I reckon Busslinger would've been a lock to the Suns. Outside of lacking a bit of speed and not being overly convincing one-on-one at WAFL league level, there's very little about Busslinger's game that causes concern. A good mark, reader of the play, user and intercept player, Busslinger has a lot of traits clubs are looking for when it comes to tall timber down back, and will more than likely make as a very good second tall in the long run.

Rationale; Is it the 'Selwood connection' that I'm overblowing? Possibly! But looking at Geelong's list after trade period it's hard to poke holes in their young talent around the ground. With a strong young forward and midfielder crop already, that got added to over the trade period, a few promising young tall options for the front half and ruck, it's hard to see a bigger need than a young KPD to partner with SDK in the long run. Even outside of a long term view, they're light on for current KPD's, so whilst Busslinger is likely to develop in the VFL for a year or so, he's ready enough to come in if injury hits as well.

Considerations; It would've been the easiest thing to do with locking in Jhye Clark as the local and most heavily linked in the media, but I just don't understand a midfielder selection with Bruhn and Bowes coming in, and Parfitt, Holmes, Knevitt, etc. waiting in the wings. As a best available selection I get it, but I don't think the gap between these two is big enough to warrant that.

Pick 9 - West Coast Eagles - Jhye Clark
Geelong Falcons | VIC Country
Inside Midfielder
181 cm 76 kg
Snapshot; Well renowned for his competitive nature and leadership, Clark has long been in and around the top 10 but perhaps doesn't offer the same excitement levels as others in the same area. It is what it is, not every draft pick has to have the capacity to be the next Bont, sometimes a safe selection that's likely to contribute to a high level for 200 odd games is the way to go about it. Clark is a clean and consistent contested mid with a surprisingly good aerial game and footy smarts, and is going to be a player that will turn up each week and give it his all. I think his lack of athleticism has been overblown a bit, whilst he doesn't have the burst power of some others, his top running speed is more than good enough.

Rationale; A non-WA based player to the Eagles? What! West Coast are at the start of their rebuild, and desperately need to address their midfield ASAP. We know they're interested enough in Clark to have interviewed him multiple times, doesn't necessarily mean everything but I think his attitude and approach to each week will appeal to a club that's going to need some drive and leadership with the likes of JJK retiring and Shuey/ Hurn towards their end. As I said in the snapshot, it may be an unexciting pick but I think it's the perfect spot to start for the journey.

Considerations; As much as I disagree with it, Ed Allan could be the pick here given the links, and as I said with Ginbey, the speed and endurance mix is going to be saught after heavily this year, and with Carlton looming and others within the next 5-10 interested and possibly trading up, they might just take him for themselves to avoid the risk. Cam Mackenzie also fits as a hard working midfielder with links there and Mattaes Phillipou seems to be a sneaky chance. And of course, Jedd Busslinger!

Pick 10 - St Kilda - Cameron Mackenzie
Sandringham Dragons | VIC Metro
Balanced Midfielder
188 cm 83 kg
Snapshot; Coming into the year as a back flanker, it was a pleasant surprise to see Mackenzie playing as forward/ midfielder in Round 1 and standing out. From there, he's only gone upwards as a well balanced midfielder. There's really not a lot Mackenzie does wrong, he's got a good defensive work ethic, solid athleticism, a well balanced approach to the midfield, strong stoppage craft, strong team ethic and some impressive disposal. So much he does well without being elite means that one of the only concerns with him is whether he's a "good at everything, great at not much" type of player, which I don't agree with but is worth bringing up. If it weren't for a particular Brisbane F/S prospect sharing his side at Sandringham this year, I reckon Mackenzie would've been averaging low 30's and a goal a game such is his quality.

Rationale; You spend enough time developing a kid through the NGA and you're bound to take him if he's available right? Even without the connection, it makes sense for St Kilda to bring in something different to their current on ball brigade in a strong user of the footy, and with his frame there's scope to develop into a big bodied ball winner that everyone loves so much

Considerations; It's a hard one with St Kilda, and it seems they may be left picking the leftovers of the top 9. Mattaes Phillipou has been linked a bit, as has Jedd Busslinger should he reach here. Matthew Jefferson is the smoky here, some quieter links but makes sense as another young KPF to partner with King long term.

(write ups for Picks 11-21 to come sometime within the next 24 hours xx)
Pick 11 - Carlton - Oliver Hollands
Murray Bushrangers | VIC Country
Balanced Midfielder/ Wing
183 cm 71 kg
Snapshot; The hardest runner in the class, Hollands is a flexible midfield option that is consistent in his output, Hollands proved this year that he's a capable inside ball winner as well as receiver, and then of course as a winger. With his high work rate and gut running, Hollands is a damaging link up option from defensive50 and generally hurts opposition in transition

Rationale; The links have been consistent for a while and Carlton's need for someone that runs hard in both phases of the game. They brought in Acres which relieves a bit of pressure on Hollands in terms of needing to impact right away as he builds some size and strength to prepare for the next level

Considerations; There's a couple of links here, Ed Allan is the other one that pops up a bit which makes sense as he can fill a similar role with arguably higher upside. Matthew Jefferson could be considered here given they're somewhat light on for key forwards, but I reckon it's between Allan and Hollands, as well as any other slider.

Pick 12 - Western Bulldogs - Mattaes Phillipou
Woodville-West Torrens | SA
Balanced Midfielder/ General Forward
190 cm 89 kg
Snapshot; A long with Tsatas, Phillipou is one that's divided opinion given some of his interview answers in articles, I like a kid with confidence though so don't really see an issue with those. As a player, he's got the highest upside of anyone in the crop given his age and athleticism. Regardless of whether he lives up to the Bont potential, I think the worst case is that he ends up a damaging third tall forward with how strong his overhead marking is.

Rationale; Dogs are hard to get a grip on, they need a few things that Phillipou doesn't address, and I reckon most of the links are coming from the fact his Dad played for the Dogs, but it's undeniable that his upside alone is tantalising at this point in the draft. They managed to turn Bont into what he is, no reason to think they can't do it with Phillipou.

Considerations; As I said hard to get a grip on, from a needs perspective I reckon Lewis Hayes and Josh Weddle fit for KPD reinforcement, and Olli Hotton or Jacob Konstanty could fit the small forward needs. There's word that they've got interest in Charlie Clarke, is it too early for him here?


Pick 13 - Brisbane (Matched Bid) - Jaspa Fletcher
Sherwood | QLD
Wing/ Outside Midfielder
183 cm 76 kg
Snapshot; The leading Northern State prospect in the pool, Fletcher is in a unique position where he's eligible as both a Father/Son and Nothern Academy selection for Brisbane. He's a classy and clean ball user who's shone his ability to impact as a winger and a centre square player, but has traits that'll allow him to play on a flank at either end as well.

Rationale; As said with Ashcroft, they're not passing on first round talent with the position they're in. They cop a heavy deficit due to the fact I'm not predicting live trades, but come actual draft night I doubt they don't have a trade lined up to avoid one this big.
Brisbane use Pick 52 + 17 point surplus from Ashcroft to match, taking on a 707 point deficit for their first pick in 2023


Pick 14 - West Coast Eagles - Ed Allan
Claremont | WA
Wing/ Balanced Midfielder
194 cm 83 kg
Snapshot; One that has 'bolted' in the eyes of the public in the back end of the year, Allan has piqued interest as a key position sized midfielder that's shown some strong form on the wing. There's a lot of hype around his potential to turn into a contested ball winner and start unlocking his athleticism a bit more on field

Rationale; It was tempting to pull the trigger at Pick 9, and it won't surprise me if it happens in the real thing, but I feel some more proven talent will be favoured when it gets started. There's a lot to like about Allan, but it's hard to deny that it's a speculative pick this early on, but the Eagles have enough picks to take a risk.

Considerations; WA talent is inevitably getting linked, so Elijah Hewett and Darcy Jones could be pounced on, but it seems a bit early for Jones at the very least. Olli Hotton may be a sneaky chance given he can fill in through the midfield and forward, but I think it's most likely they'll pick whoever remains of the top 12 if Allan is gone/ selected by them at 9

Pick 15 - Melbourne - Matthew Jefferson
Oakleigh Chargers | VIC Metro
Tall Forward
195 cm 84 kg
Snapshot; A low possession but high impact key forward, Jefferson rarely goes a game without impacting the scoreboard. Although he plays closer to goal most of the time he's shown a good capacity as a tall that can push up the ground and help more with link up play. His marking is his biggest strength, even without being super strong as it stands he's a good one-on-one mark and displays solid body work

Rationale; They need a young KPF to pair with JVR in the long run, and the styles of the two would compliment each other well. I think with Melbourne's game style a player like Jefferson that can take some ridiculous marks and smart leads will thrive with their ball movement forward and damage in transition where he could get one-on-one inside 50

Considerations; There's interest in Ed Allan and this is probably the first pick of the draft I think the club will actively be trying to trade up with. The next couple of picks in Olli Hotton and Jacob Konstanty might be of interest, as might Lachlan Cowan with Jayden Hunt leaving and other options getting older. Elijah Hewett plays like a Melbourne player as well

Pick 16 - Sydney - Olli Hotton
Sandringham Dragons
Balanced Midfielder/ Small Forward
182 cm 80 kg
Snapshot; Flagged early in the pre season as someone with draftable traits, Hotton progressively rose up rankings early in the season, but put himself into first round contention with his game for Metro v South Australia. Incredibly gifted athletically and clean below his knees, Hotton brings a lot of what people are looking for in smaller players, there's some development left in his forward craft, but how dynamic he is will make him a dangerous player

Rationale; Sydney are always the hardest club to get a read of, but I think Hotton fits as a dual position player that's improved with each outing, is clean with his ball use and ground balls, and whilst small in stature has athleticism that allows him to play taller than his height.

Considerations; Always difficult with the Swans, Lachlan Cowan and Josh Weddle could come in and add to their backline quite quickly I imagine, with a slight edging towards Weddle given his potential to play as a Rampe sort of third tall. I also imagine they'll be looking to trade up if the opportunity presents itself, but don't think many with higher picks are looking to move down

Pick 17 - GWS - Jacob Konstanty
Gippsland Power | VIC Country
Small Forward
177 cm 73 kg
Snapshot; The most defensively solid small forward in the crop, with pressure forwards proving their value recently Konstanty looks like on that'll draw a bit of attention for this at the draft. He's got athleticism, he's crafty in difficult situations, but most importantly he runs hard in defence and offense.

Rationale; If rumours are to be believed GWS have been into Konstanty for a long time, and as they look to address the front half of the ground Konstanty fits modern football well as a small forward and would add some much needed pressure in the forward line.

Considerations; Charlie Clarke is really the only other player being linked with any sort of strength here which makes sense given he addresses similar needs and there's other clubs in this range interested, but Konstanty is more likely to ranked higher imo

Pick 18 - Essendon (Matched Bid) - Alwyn Davey Jnr
Oakleigh Chargers | VIC Metro
Outside Midfielder/ Small Forward
181 cm 77 kg
Snapshot; A classy ball user who's proven his value in the midfield and forward line, Davey is a team orientated player that prides himself on setting teammates up with his shrewd ball use

Rationale; Much like Brisbane with Fletcher, if a bids coming up here Essendon will trade for more points, or look to get ahead of the bid, so he'll end up at the Dons but it may not wipe them out of an open selection like this.
Essendon use Pick 24 to Match

Pick 19 - Collingwood - Josh Weddle
Oakleigh Chargers | VIC Metro
General Defender
192 cm 91 kg
Snapshot; Despite being a little under traditional KPP height, Weddle has successful competed against some of the best talls and smalls in the crop alike, with his outstanding athleticism allowing him to match anyone in the air or in a foot race. It stands out to me that Weddle has been the only player this year to effectively keep Cadman quiet, it's why I personally view him as the second best KPD in the pool

Rationale; There's links to Collingwood that have popped up a bit since the end of the trade period and it makes sense, I think the Pies have shown they're ok with going for smaller KPP's if they've got the athletic tools to match it on bigger opponents and Weddle fits that well, with the mentioned athleticism and strong one-on-one work it's not out of the question that he can be an effective key post at the next level

Considerations; I think the most likely scenario is that the pies go tall here, or for someone that can play as a tall, with Harry Barnett, Isaac Keeler and Lewis Hayes all linked at various points. Henry Hustwaite and Charlie Clarke have interest, but is it too early for either?

Pick 20 - Sydney - Lachlan Cowan
Devonport | TAS
General Defender
187 cm 81 kg
Snapshot; Joint winner of the NAB League best and fairest award, Cowan has attacked the season with incredible consistency off the back flank, drawing eyes with his run and carry, as well as his accurate long bombs from kick ins. There's midfield potential there as well, and at 187 cm that potential as a bigger mid may see him go higher

Rationale; Linked a bit to the Swans, and has the capacity to replace Lloyd long term as a high accumulating HBF. Has that mix of speed and endurance that may appeal as a future midfielder as well

Considerations; Sydney are always capable of pulling out something left field, they got moved around pretty easily in the midfield in the GF, so could a physically strong midfielder like Harry Rowston appeal here? Henry Hustwaite as another taller mid might be worth a look, or a more traditional tall defender like Lewis Hayes

Pick 21 - GWS - Charlie Clarke
Sandringham Dragons | VIC Metro
Small Forward/ Inside Midfielder
182 cm 80 kg
Snapshot; An electric forward half player, Clarke uses his athleticism to make things happen around the ground, and loves a goal celebration. Although there are some still some aspects of his game that are a little raw, his improvement this year and ability to crack in for a contested ball is a promising sign for what's to come

Rationale; Again forward half players seem to be the go for GWS, and Clarke's attitude around moving interstate along with his on field capabilities make him an attractive option for GWS. It'll probably be seen as a bit early for majority of the comp, but given the amount of picks GWS has and how their list building works I don't think traditional range is much of a concern

Bangers, I’d be interested in why Elijah Hewett has so dramatically fallen off the cliff in your rankings? Particularly since he tested pretty good from memory.

Is it simply the scuttlebutt about ‘go home factor’?

IMO he was there at our pick, Collingwood would be pretty negligent not to pick him up. Particularly since there’s a chance we can address some of our key position needs with our picks in the 20’s

 

[Eastcoasteagle]

Yeah I do round by round to break it up a bit, so once I finish the write ups for Round 1 I'll put up round 2

If I was West Coast that's the direction I'd be going personally, but everything points to Allan for the Eagles somewhere and Hewett sliding a bit overall.

Hewitt in your phantom is only 1 pick away from our next pick anyway. Could still get him.

 

[Supersuns]

boy am I hoping there's no pick trades between now and Tuesday that ruins all of this work!

Now before we get into it, I really need to stress that this is based on what I think will happen, draft positions here aren't necessarily a reflection on how I rate the talent order this year, to be perfectly honest there's some guys in this phantom going way too high and way too low in my opinion. Some of it is well informed, some of it is based on other reliable rumours, some of it is pure guess work based on what I perceive a clubs needs as, and at the end of the day none of it matters come the actual draft, because I don't work for a club and like everyone else am just putting names to random numbers/ clubs

Anyway, lets get into it xx

View attachment 1552891

Pick 1 - GWS - Aaron Cadman
GWV Rebels | VIC Country
Tall Forward
195 cm 91 kg
Snapshot; The leading Key Forward in this years pool, Cadman has earnt some lofty comparisons in terms of his play style, with Jeremy Cameron being the most popular one due to how much of the footy he accumulates and how hard he works to create up the ground as well as inside 50. Cadman really comes across as a safe KPF selection with his only notable weakness for the role being his set shot conversion, but his work rate, ground level work and marking are all top class, giving him a good platform to impact in all aspects of the game, not just inside 50

Rationale; Seems pretty much locked in at this point with GWS in desperate need of some reinforcement for their tall forward stocks, and the draft being their primary method of list building, they'll almost certainly reach for Cadman given that need and the go-home risk of other top prospects in the range. On top of all that, the fact that Cadman is physically ready to impact next year, probably not as a main target mind you, is a real boost to a side that struggles with getting their best KPF in Hogan on the park consistently, and the others suffering from being inconsistent or just not up to standard

Other considerations; The only other option for Pick 1 is to bid on Will Ashcroft, which isn't something GWS traditionally do without a reason other than "make other teams pay", he doesn't fit a list need which I think is the main factor here, but the deal for Pick 15 did seem to favour GWS a little bit so may have some sort of agreement there. Plus Northern Academy sides look out for each other where they can

Pick 2 - Brisbane (Matched Bid) - Will Ashcroft
Sandringham Dragons | VIC Metro
Balanced Midfielder
181 cm 78 kg
Snapshot; The most dominate player in the pool, and arguable ever in the NAB League, there's literally nothing else Ashcroft could've done this year to push his case as the best player in the class. He's won nearly every award he's eligible for, impressed at VFL level and remained nothing but level headed throughout. A consistent threat in the midfield, there's little flaws to Ashcroft's game and it's not out of the realms of possibility that he'll have a bigger impact than Nick Daicos next year given his play style and more readymade frame, I could see him lining up in the centre square in Round 1 alongside Dunkley and Neale.

Rationale; Brisbane have made the right pick trading moves to allow them to match a bid on Ashcroft and will likely make some live pick trades the night of to avoid going into a major deficit when matching Fletcher, there's nothing that will see either end up in other colours

Brisbane use picks 34, 35, 36 and 38, leaving them with a surplus of 17 points

Pick 3 - North Melbourne - George Wardlaw
Oakleigh Chargers | VIC Metro
Inside Midfielder
182 cm 80 kg
Snapshot; If there was a chance someone would dethrone Ashcroft this year, it was with Wardlaw, and it can be argued that he's still the top prospect given his performances early in the year and the traits he has. Whilst the hamstring hiccups will have caused concern for some, even with that slight risk Wardlaw's positives make it difficult to overlook him with a top pick, especially for a team that recently lost their future contested bull. Wardlaw ticks pretty much every box for a contested midfielder; strong in the contest, athletic, defensively minded and clean with the footy, but also is able to impact on the outside when forced into those positions, however I doubt a club is going to try and put him in that role too often

Rationale; As stated in the snapshot, they've just lost JHF who was billed to be their star contested bull for a decade, so bringing in someone of that quality in the midfield is a hard opportunity to pass up. Even though he is a little small compared to what modern midfielders are becoming, his A+ competiveness more than makes up for it, along with his willingness to throw himself at opposition and ball alike. He'll get early opportunities if he really is over the Hamstring complaints, and despite limited exposure in other roles he's got the skill set to impact anywhere.

Pick 4 - North Melbourne - Harry Sheezel
Sandringham Dragons | VIC Metro
General Forward
185 cm 80 kg
Snapshot; Arguably the best and most effective user of the footy in the class, Sheezel is an invaluable asset in the front half for any team he's part of, with his dynamic style allowing him to wear all sorts of different caps within the 'small forward' role. He's strong above head and at ground level, evasive enough to get around opponents to slot a goal but smart enough to know when to do it, he possess everything that anyone is looking for in a forward half player except for top level athleticism, but even that aspect has been overblown a bit.

Rationale; North's interest in Sheezel has been known for quite a while, even prior to trading down it seems like he was always their guy at the top of the order. Players like Toby Greene, Charlie Cameron, Tyson Stengle, etc. that are reliable as smaller targets but also able to impact at ground level have proved to be worth their weight in gold, and whilst Sheezel doesn't share all their traits he makes up for it with his supreme disposal. Although I think he's a 'set and forget' up forward, his skills translate to every role on the ground, so if North feel they need someone in the midfield or backline as well Sheezel could fill in pretty easily, another one that'll have early opportunities

Considerations; The only other player I can realistically see North taking with these picks is Elijah Tsatas, but I don't think they're going to move from the combo of Sheezel and Wardlaw between now and the draft unless they get an extremely compelling trade offer.

Pick 5 - Essendon - Bailey Humphrey
Gippsland Power | VIC Country
Inside Midfielder/ General Forward
185 cm 86 kg
Snapshot; Even with a mid season break due to injury, Humphrey has pushed up from being 'stiff to miss out on the Vic Country Hub' to an almost guaranteed Top 10 selection. With the rise in prominence of players that can act as top class on ballers and as forward 50 targets when resting it's not hard to see why Humphrey is being so sort after, with a strong contested game and burst speed in the centre, and ridiculously good contested mark up forward, Humphrey is going to be one that'll hurt opposition in either role in the long run. I also think his disposal quality has been severely undersold recently, his goal kicking is obviously an area of improvement but I do believe his disposal in general play is pretty good for a player winning so much of it at the coalface

Rationale; More than anything Essendon need some physicality in their midfield, and Essendon fans continue to scream about getting a bigger body in there, and Humphrey fits the bill. We've also seen how much of a game changer Stringer can be for them when on song, so bringing in someone that can act as an understudy for a few years will be an attractive prospect. No one player is an immediate fix, but selecting Humphrey is a step in the right direction, and like those taken before him he's physically ready for AFL footy, with his endurance the only thing I can see holding him back

Considerations; Like every year there's a lot of players being linked to Essendon, trying to wade through it all isn't easy, but I ended up tossing the coin between Reuben Ginbey, Elijah Tsatas and Mattaes Phillipou here for them as well. Ultimately I just believe that Humphrey is the most likely of that group given Dodo is a massive fan.

Pick 6 - Gold Coast Suns - Reuben Ginbey
East Perth | WA
Inside Midfielder/ General Defender
189 cm 82 kg
Snapshot; Arguably the biggest bolter of the season, Ginbey burst onto the scene, and draft boards, after his Round 1 debut with the East Perth senior side, looking more than capable at the level with bigger bodies and more developed footy skills, matching it with some of the best forwards the WAFL has to offer. What's really piqued clubs interest with Ginbey is his high level athleticism, contested game and potential as a midifelder, with clubs looking for players with speed and endurance to match the increasing demands of AFL running, Ginbey fits the bill well with his skillset.

Rationale; What do Gold Coast even really need apart from Key Defenders and some luck with injury? Not much imo, so taking a punt on a guy who at best could be an A grade contested midfielder, or at worst could fill in as a third tall defender capable of locking down tall or small opponents isn't a bad way to go about it. I still have questions as to whether he'll end up a full time midfielder, but the more I think about it the more the pick makes sense, with the top end of Ginbey's ceiling essentially a perfect picture of what a modern day contested midfielder should be.

Considerations; There's really not much else that will happen here, if Ginbey's gone to Essendon then perhaps Bailey Humphrey is the one to try and fill a similar long term role? There has been interest in Jhye Clark as well so that looms as a possible surprise

Pick 7 - Hawthorn - Elijah Tsatas
Oakleigh Chargers | VIC Metro
Balanced Midfielder/ Wing
186 cm 79 kg
Snapshot; A pick 1 contender at the start of the year, Tsatas has gradually become one of the most polarising prospects in the top rung of the class. His best traits are ridiculously eye catching, with his athleticism and ability to translate it into every situation the main thing catching the eye, like Ginbey that speed is something clubs are always looking to add to their midfield mix. A strong accumulator and flexible within his role in the midfield, he gives whichever club takes him options, with no decision really effecting his output.

Rationale; I mean, Hawthorn need midfielders and it's hard to see them passing up one that brings something so different to their current mix. I know the Hawks faithful are split on Mackenzie/ Phillipou/ Clark/ Tsatas/ Humphrey, and it's hard to see this pick not being one of them, but ultimately I just sense that if Tsatas does fall here come draft night they won't pass him up even with the question marks. It's a really hard talent v fit debate here, Tsatas is, in my opinion pretty clearly the top talent left here, but Hawthorn's drafting last year indicates to me he's not really the type they're looking for, with more emphasis on footskills and workrate

Considerations; Jhye Clark and Cam Mackenzie are the main ones here, both fit Hawks drafting profile under Mitchell more and for that reason this is the pick I most expect to get wrong from the Top 7

Pick 8 - Geelong - Jedd Busslinger
East Perth | WA
Tall Defender
196 cm 82 kg
Snapshot; Just clearly the best tall defender in the pool, if it weren't for a Shoulder Injury ending his season early I reckon Busslinger would've been a lock to the Suns. Outside of lacking a bit of speed and not being overly convincing one-on-one at WAFL league level, there's very little about Busslinger's game that causes concern. A good mark, reader of the play, user and intercept player, Busslinger has a lot of traits clubs are looking for when it comes to tall timber down back, and will more than likely make as a very good second tall in the long run.

Rationale; Is it the 'Selwood connection' that I'm overblowing? Possibly! But looking at Geelong's list after trade period it's hard to poke holes in their young talent around the ground. With a strong young forward and midfielder crop already, that got added to over the trade period, a few promising young tall options for the front half and ruck, it's hard to see a bigger need than a young KPD to partner with SDK in the long run. Even outside of a long term view, they're light on for current KPD's, so whilst Busslinger is likely to develop in the VFL for a year or so, he's ready enough to come in if injury hits as well.

Considerations; It would've been the easiest thing to do with locking in Jhye Clark as the local and most heavily linked in the media, but I just don't understand a midfielder selection with Bruhn and Bowes coming in, and Parfitt, Holmes, Knevitt, etc. waiting in the wings. As a best available selection I get it, but I don't think the gap between these two is big enough to warrant that.

Pick 9 - West Coast Eagles - Jhye Clark
Geelong Falcons | VIC Country
Inside Midfielder
181 cm 76 kg
Snapshot; Well renowned for his competitive nature and leadership, Clark has long been in and around the top 10 but perhaps doesn't offer the same excitement levels as others in the same area. It is what it is, not every draft pick has to have the capacity to be the next Bont, sometimes a safe selection that's likely to contribute to a high level for 200 odd games is the way to go about it. Clark is a clean and consistent contested mid with a surprisingly good aerial game and footy smarts, and is going to be a player that will turn up each week and give it his all. I think his lack of athleticism has been overblown a bit, whilst he doesn't have the burst power of some others, his top running speed is more than good enough.

Rationale; A non-WA based player to the Eagles? What! West Coast are at the start of their rebuild, and desperately need to address their midfield ASAP. We know they're interested enough in Clark to have interviewed him multiple times, doesn't necessarily mean everything but I think his attitude and approach to each week will appeal to a club that's going to need some drive and leadership with the likes of JJK retiring and Shuey/ Hurn towards their end. As I said in the snapshot, it may be an unexciting pick but I think it's the perfect spot to start for the journey.

Considerations; As much as I disagree with it, Ed Allan could be the pick here given the links, and as I said with Ginbey, the speed and endurance mix is going to be saught after heavily this year, and with Carlton looming and others within the next 5-10 interested and possibly trading up, they might just take him for themselves to avoid the risk. Cam Mackenzie also fits as a hard working midfielder with links there and Mattaes Phillipou seems to be a sneaky chance. And of course, Jedd Busslinger!

Pick 10 - St Kilda - Cameron Mackenzie
Sandringham Dragons | VIC Metro
Balanced Midfielder
188 cm 83 kg
Snapshot; Coming into the year as a back flanker, it was a pleasant surprise to see Mackenzie playing as forward/ midfielder in Round 1 and standing out. From there, he's only gone upwards as a well balanced midfielder. There's really not a lot Mackenzie does wrong, he's got a good defensive work ethic, solid athleticism, a well balanced approach to the midfield, strong stoppage craft, strong team ethic and some impressive disposal. So much he does well without being elite means that one of the only concerns with him is whether he's a "good at everything, great at not much" type of player, which I don't agree with but is worth bringing up. If it weren't for a particular Brisbane F/S prospect sharing his side at Sandringham this year, I reckon Mackenzie would've been averaging low 30's and a goal a game such is his quality.

Rationale; You spend enough time developing a kid through the NGA and you're bound to take him if he's available right? Even without the connection, it makes sense for St Kilda to bring in something different to their current on ball brigade in a strong user of the footy, and with his frame there's scope to develop into a big bodied ball winner that everyone loves so much

Considerations; It's a hard one with St Kilda, and it seems they may be left picking the leftovers of the top 9. Mattaes Phillipou has been linked a bit, as has Jedd Busslinger should he reach here. Matthew Jefferson is the smoky here, some quieter links but makes sense as another young KPF to partner with King long term.

(write ups for Picks 11-21 to come sometime within the next 24 hours xx)
Pick 11 - Carlton - Oliver Hollands
Murray Bushrangers | VIC Country
Balanced Midfielder/ Wing
183 cm 71 kg
Snapshot; The hardest runner in the class, Hollands is a flexible midfield option that is consistent in his output, Hollands proved this year that he's a capable inside ball winner as well as receiver, and then of course as a winger. With his high work rate and gut running, Hollands is a damaging link up option from defensive50 and generally hurts opposition in transition

Rationale; The links have been consistent for a while and Carlton's need for someone that runs hard in both phases of the game. They brought in Acres which relieves a bit of pressure on Hollands in terms of needing to impact right away as he builds some size and strength to prepare for the next level

Considerations; There's a couple of links here, Ed Allan is the other one that pops up a bit which makes sense as he can fill a similar role with arguably higher upside. Matthew Jefferson could be considered here given they're somewhat light on for key forwards, but I reckon it's between Allan and Hollands, as well as any other slider.

Pick 12 - Western Bulldogs - Mattaes Phillipou
Woodville-West Torrens | SA
Balanced Midfielder/ General Forward
190 cm 89 kg
Snapshot; A long with Tsatas, Phillipou is one that's divided opinion given some of his interview answers in articles, I like a kid with confidence though so don't really see an issue with those. As a player, he's got the highest upside of anyone in the crop given his age and athleticism. Regardless of whether he lives up to the Bont potential, I think the worst case is that he ends up a damaging third tall forward with how strong his overhead marking is.

Rationale; Dogs are hard to get a grip on, they need a few things that Phillipou doesn't address, and I reckon most of the links are coming from the fact his Dad played for the Dogs, but it's undeniable that his upside alone is tantalising at this point in the draft. They managed to turn Bont into what he is, no reason to think they can't do it with Phillipou.

Considerations; As I said hard to get a grip on, from a needs perspective I reckon Lewis Hayes and Josh Weddle fit for KPD reinforcement, and Olli Hotton or Jacob Konstanty could fit the small forward needs. There's word that they've got interest in Charlie Clarke, is it too early for him here?


Pick 13 - Brisbane (Matched Bid) - Jaspa Fletcher
Sherwood | QLD
Wing/ Outside Midfielder
183 cm 76 kg
Snapshot; The leading Northern State prospect in the pool, Fletcher is in a unique position where he's eligible as both a Father/Son and Nothern Academy selection for Brisbane. He's a classy and clean ball user who's shone his ability to impact as a winger and a centre square player, but has traits that'll allow him to play on a flank at either end as well.

Rationale; As said with Ashcroft, they're not passing on first round talent with the position they're in. They cop a heavy deficit due to the fact I'm not predicting live trades, but come actual draft night I doubt they don't have a trade lined up to avoid one this big.
Brisbane use Pick 52 + 17 point surplus from Ashcroft to match, taking on a 707 point deficit for their first pick in 2023


Pick 14 - West Coast Eagles - Ed Allan
Claremont | WA
Wing/ Balanced Midfielder
194 cm 83 kg
Snapshot; One that has 'bolted' in the eyes of the public in the back end of the year, Allan has piqued interest as a key position sized midfielder that's shown some strong form on the wing. There's a lot of hype around his potential to turn into a contested ball winner and start unlocking his athleticism a bit more on field

Rationale; It was tempting to pull the trigger at Pick 9, and it won't surprise me if it happens in the real thing, but I feel some more proven talent will be favoured when it gets started. There's a lot to like about Allan, but it's hard to deny that it's a speculative pick this early on, but the Eagles have enough picks to take a risk.

Considerations; WA talent is inevitably getting linked, so Elijah Hewett and Darcy Jones could be pounced on, but it seems a bit early for Jones at the very least. Olli Hotton may be a sneaky chance given he can fill in through the midfield and forward, but I think it's most likely they'll pick whoever remains of the top 12 if Allan is gone/ selected by them at 9

Pick 15 - Melbourne - Matthew Jefferson
Oakleigh Chargers | VIC Metro
Tall Forward
195 cm 84 kg
Snapshot; A low possession but high impact key forward, Jefferson rarely goes a game without impacting the scoreboard. Although he plays closer to goal most of the time he's shown a good capacity as a tall that can push up the ground and help more with link up play. His marking is his biggest strength, even without being super strong as it stands he's a good one-on-one mark and displays solid body work

Rationale; They need a young KPF to pair with JVR in the long run, and the styles of the two would compliment each other well. I think with Melbourne's game style a player like Jefferson that can take some ridiculous marks and smart leads will thrive with their ball movement forward and damage in transition where he could get one-on-one inside 50

Considerations; There's interest in Ed Allan and this is probably the first pick of the draft I think the club will actively be trying to trade up with. The next couple of picks in Olli Hotton and Jacob Konstanty might be of interest, as might Lachlan Cowan with Jayden Hunt leaving and other options getting older. Elijah Hewett plays like a Melbourne player as well

Pick 16 - Sydney - Olli Hotton
Sandringham Dragons
Balanced Midfielder/ Small Forward
182 cm 80 kg
Snapshot; Flagged early in the pre season as someone with draftable traits, Hotton progressively rose up rankings early in the season, but put himself into first round contention with his game for Metro v South Australia. Incredibly gifted athletically and clean below his knees, Hotton brings a lot of what people are looking for in smaller players, there's some development left in his forward craft, but how dynamic he is will make him a dangerous player

Rationale; Sydney are always the hardest club to get a read of, but I think Hotton fits as a dual position player that's improved with each outing, is clean with his ball use and ground balls, and whilst small in stature has athleticism that allows him to play taller than his height.

Considerations; Always difficult with the Swans, Lachlan Cowan and Josh Weddle could come in and add to their backline quite quickly I imagine, with a slight edging towards Weddle given his potential to play as a Rampe sort of third tall. I also imagine they'll be looking to trade up if the opportunity presents itself, but don't think many with higher picks are looking to move down

Pick 17 - GWS - Jacob Konstanty
Gippsland Power | VIC Country
Small Forward
177 cm 73 kg
Snapshot; The most defensively solid small forward in the crop, with pressure forwards proving their value recently Konstanty looks like on that'll draw a bit of attention for this at the draft. He's got athleticism, he's crafty in difficult situations, but most importantly he runs hard in defence and offense.

Rationale; If rumours are to be believed GWS have been into Konstanty for a long time, and as they look to address the front half of the ground Konstanty fits modern football well as a small forward and would add some much needed pressure in the forward line.

Considerations; Charlie Clarke is really the only other player being linked with any sort of strength here which makes sense given he addresses similar needs and there's other clubs in this range interested, but Konstanty is more likely to ranked higher imo

Pick 18 - Essendon (Matched Bid) - Alwyn Davey Jnr
Oakleigh Chargers | VIC Metro
Outside Midfielder/ Small Forward
181 cm 77 kg
Snapshot; A classy ball user who's proven his value in the midfield and forward line, Davey is a team orientated player that prides himself on setting teammates up with his shrewd ball use

Rationale; Much like Brisbane with Fletcher, if a bids coming up here Essendon will trade for more points, or look to get ahead of the bid, so he'll end up at the Dons but it may not wipe them out of an open selection like this.
Essendon use Pick 24 to Match

Pick 19 - Collingwood - Josh Weddle
Oakleigh Chargers | VIC Metro
General Defender
192 cm 91 kg
Snapshot; Despite being a little under traditional KPP height, Weddle has successful competed against some of the best talls and smalls in the crop alike, with his outstanding athleticism allowing him to match anyone in the air or in a foot race. It stands out to me that Weddle has been the only player this year to effectively keep Cadman quiet, it's why I personally view him as the second best KPD in the pool

Rationale; There's links to Collingwood that have popped up a bit since the end of the trade period and it makes sense, I think the Pies have shown they're ok with going for smaller KPP's if they've got the athletic tools to match it on bigger opponents and Weddle fits that well, with the mentioned athleticism and strong one-on-one work it's not out of the question that he can be an effective key post at the next level

Considerations; I think the most likely scenario is that the pies go tall here, or for someone that can play as a tall, with Harry Barnett, Isaac Keeler and Lewis Hayes all linked at various points. Henry Hustwaite and Charlie Clarke have interest, but is it too early for either?

Pick 20 - Sydney - Lachlan Cowan
Devonport | TAS
General Defender
187 cm 81 kg
Snapshot; Joint winner of the NAB League best and fairest award, Cowan has attacked the season with incredible consistency off the back flank, drawing eyes with his run and carry, as well as his accurate long bombs from kick ins. There's midfield potential there as well, and at 187 cm that potential as a bigger mid may see him go higher

Rationale; Linked a bit to the Swans, and has the capacity to replace Lloyd long term as a high accumulating HBF. Has that mix of speed and endurance that may appeal as a future midfielder as well

Considerations; Sydney are always capable of pulling out something left field, they got moved around pretty easily in the midfield in the GF, so could a physically strong midfielder like Harry Rowston appeal here? Henry Hustwaite as another taller mid might be worth a look, or a more traditional tall defender like Lewis Hayes

Pick 21 - GWS - Charlie Clarke
Sandringham Dragons | VIC Metro
Small Forward/ Inside Midfielder
182 cm 80 kg
Snapshot; An electric forward half player, Clarke uses his athleticism to make things happen around the ground, and loves a goal celebration. Although there are some still some aspects of his game that are a little raw, his improvement this year and ability to crack in for a contested ball is a promising sign for what's to come

Rationale; Again forward half players seem to be the go for GWS, and Clarke's attitude around moving interstate along with his on field capabilities make him an attractive option for GWS. It'll probably be seen as a bit early for majority of the comp, but given the amount of picks GWS has and how their list building works I don't think traditional range is much of a concern

Thanks I hate it.

 

[PMBangers]

Bangers, I’d be interested in why Elijah Hewett has so dramatically fallen off the cliff in your rankings? Particularly since he tested pretty good from memory.

Is it simply the scuttlebutt about ‘go home factor’?

IMO he was there at our pick, Collingwood would be pretty negligent not to pick him up. Particularly since there’s a chance we can address some of our key position needs with our picks in the 20’s

Inconsistency at the Champs against players he's far more developed than concerned me a lot, I was giving it the 'benefit of the doubt' with his senior form given it was a fair step up and he wasn't getting the midfield opportunities he probably needed to impact further on games. It's something he's admitted to being disappointed by as well, wanted to use the Champs to prove he's the best of his peers and didn't fully take the opportunity.

I don't take go home factor into account for my rankings, it's not something that I think is going to play a part in someone's ability to impact on field or have a long career, it's the same for testing, bad or good results aren't something I put too much weight in to because application on field is far more important, unless it's a genuinely shocking result (3.2+ 20 meter sprint for example)

Hewitt in your phantom is only 1 pick away from our next pick anyway. Could still get him.

Could do indeed!

Thanks I hate it.

I hated putting him there more

 

[PMBangers]

(Round 2 and beyond snapshots officially ripped straight from RookieMe Central, because I can)
Pick 22 - GWS - Darcy Jones
Swan Districts | WA
Balanced Midfielder/ Small Forward
174 cm 63 kg
Snapshot; A tenacious and zippy midfielder with an eye for goal, Jones has proven that size doesn't matter to put his name on the radar of many clubs

Rationale; It's the first pick of the second night so obviously I think there'll be some good offers from other clubs to trade the pick, and I think the most likely scenario is that GWS do trade it into next year. But again, I don't do trade predictions so I went with the player I think we're most likely to go for. It does make the GWS draft haul a little short overall, but we've shown before that athletic, X-Factor smalls don't bother us, and Jones is arguably the best fit for that in the class

Considerations; GWS have lost quite a lot in the midfield, so players like Henry Hustwaite, Elijah Hewett and Coby Burgiel were very much in the thought process here, and there's been a lot of interest in Brayden George even with the ACL, so he could be taken given the sheer volume of picks GWS have

Pick 23 - West Coast Eagles - Elijah Hewett
Swan Districts | WA
Balanced Midfielder/ General Forward
185 cm 85 kg
Snapshot; An explosive and hard-nosed midfielder, Hewett’s blend of athletic power and silky skills have led him to be one of the leading midfielders in this year’s draft crop.

Rationale; As stated, West Coast need mids and Hewett is simply put, the best available here., and of course there's an added benefit that he's from WA. Speaking of trades for the first pick of Round 2, I reckon West Coast could be a sneaky chance to offer to stop other clubs jumping ahead of them for him here

Considerations; Very little to think about here, it seems straight forward enough given the quality of Hewett and the needs of West Coast. I did think about Harry Barnett as a possible Nic Nat heir, but reckon there's little rush for them in that regard

Pick 24 - Western Bulldogs - Lewis Hayes
Eastern Ranges | VIC Metro
Tall Defender
199 cm 82 kg
Snapshot; A sound intercept marking defender capable of playing to or below his 199cm standing, with composed ball use by foot

Rationale; The dogs need a young key defender, just ask their fans! It makes sense to lock in a guy that has the potential of going in the first round to develop in the wings as their current KPD's age away. Yes they got Liam Jones

19

Liam Jones

Age

33

Ht

199cm

Wt

98kg

Pos.

Def

Career

Season

Last 5

D

9.4

2star

K

6.5

3star

HB

2.9

3star

M

4.3

4star

T

2.0

4star

MG

134.5

2star

D

7.6

2star

K

6.1

3star

HB

1.4

1star

M

4.1

4star

T

1.4

2star

MG

116.3

2star

D

9.4

3star

K

7.4

3star

HB

2.0

2star

M

4.0

4star

T

2.2

4star

, but how many years is anyone expecting him to play at a high level for?

Considerations; There's a couple of players on the board that could assist the bulldogs with their KPD need, with Max Gruzewski a tad undersized but athletic enough to make up for it, and Harry Barnett having played there as a junior and still showing the traits required, but I think clubs will be seeing them more as a forward and a ruck respectively

Pick 25 - North Melbourne - Max Gruzewski
Oakleigh Chargers | VIC Metro
General Utility
193 cm 84 kg
Snapshot; A versatile tall who has shown some promising signs at both ends of the ground this season, pushing his case as a potential first round bolter

Rationale; Even with Griffin Logue

19

Griffin Logue

Age

26

Ht

193cm

Wt

100kg

Pos.

Def

Career

Season

Last 5

D

9.8

2star

K

4.4

2star

HB

5.4

4star

M

2.4

3star

T

1.0

3star

MG

115.4

2star

D

9.8

2star

K

4.4

2star

HB

5.4

3star

M

2.4

3star

T

1.0

2star

MG

115.4

2star

D

9.8

3star

K

4.4

2star

HB

5.4

4star

M

2.4

3star

T

1.0

3star

MG

115.4

2star

coming in I still think North would like some reinforcement for their tall defender stocks, mixed in with a need for tall forward options and the versatility of Gruzewski and his capacity to play in a key post, it's an easy link to understand. As i said for the bulldogs considerations, I think a lot of the excitement around Gruz has come off the back of his potential as a forward, and I expect clubs will be giving him the opportunity at VFL level to develop his craft a little more there.

Considerations; It's a hard one, despite North not being real good recently I think they've got a lot of positional needs covered so should be picking on potential here imo. Isaac Keeler fills a similar need as a tall forward, and a bid on Max Michalanny may be in consideration if they do still want some support down back, but the trade with Adelaide for the pick may have come with a 'wink wink' agreement there. Coby Burgiel is about right for this range as well, and could add to their outside midfield mix

Pick 26 - Hawthorn - Brayden George
Murray Bushrangers | VIC Country
General Forward
186 cm 87 kg
Snapshot; A damaging medium forward with explosive speed, clean hands and the ability to kick goals from anywhere"

Rationale; I feel for Brayden as I genuinely believe he could've been a top 10 selection had his luck with injury been better, he's arguably one of the most dynamic forwards in the crop with his ability to play as a traditional small but also as a genuine key target inside 50, and very rarely gets beaten. He could still go in the first round, and I feel for a club like Hawthorn they won't be deterred by the ACL given A) They seem to have intergalactic medical technology and B) They're not going to be any more or less competitive next year with anyone they pick, so the risk is minimal with such a high ceiling prospect

Considerations; Even with Tsatas at Pick 7, they do still need more midfielders and ones that offer a point of difference, so the composure of Henry Hustwaite may appeal at this pick, as would the forward/ midfield mix of Harry Rowston. Isaac Keeler as a potential addition to Koschitzke and Lewis could be considered as well

Pick 27 - Collingwood - Harry Barnett
West Adelaide | SA
Ruck
202 cm 97 kg
Snapshot; A physically developed ruckman who uses his athleticism to have an impact at the contest and around the ground

Rationale; The link is there and with good reason, after trading out Grundy this season and Max Lynch last season they've been left really shallow in the Ruck department, and that's even if you rate Cox's ruck work. Barnett somewhat emulates Grundy's impact around the ground which has proven crucial in the past for the Pies, and he looks the best ruck prospect over the next couple of years.

Considerations; All the same guys from their first round pick again, but one of Hustwaite and Keeler is guaranteed to be available at their next pick, so it was more a consideration of 'who would the Eagles most likely go for"

Pick 28 - West Coast Eagles - Henry Hustwaite
Dandenong Stingrays | VIC Country
Inside Midfielder/ Tall Defender
195 cm 82 kg
Snapshot; A clean and composed tall midfielder with uncanny spacial awareness and the ability to rotate to defence

Rationale; Rinse and repeat at this point, but they need midfielders or at least players with potential to push into the guts. Hustwaite offers a bit of a POV to the first 3 selections with the quality of his composure in the thick of things, able to spot good targets by hand forward of the ball, or let out a neat kick from congestion.

Considerations; Coby Burgiel once more comes into consideration here given his flexibility to play down back or up front when needed, for similar reasons Noah Long or Blake Drury could offer a more balanced draft hand with capabilities to play as small forwards too. There's word on bigfooty that Kaleb Smith is strongly in consideration which wouldn't surprise me either

Pick 29 - Adelaide (Matched Bid) - Max Michalanny
Norwood | SA
General Defender
190 cm 78 kg
Snapshot; Arguably Adelaide's most promising father-son prospect to-date, Michalanny is an athletic defender capable of shutting down tall and small opponents and providing rebound fromhalf-back

Rationale; Adelaide traded out of Pick 23 due to limited list spots, essentially confirming that they'd match a bid for Michalanny provided it came in an appropriate range, so it's hard to see them passing on him at any point on the second night.

Adelaide use Pick 44 completely to match and have Pick 53 slide down to 61

(once again due to laziness the second portion of this round will be updated with more info when I can be bothered xx)
^ In relation to this, I can't be bothered, so here is a link to the profiles page 2022 AFL Draft Profiles but you can also search for names within this thread as I've likely commented on them before

Pick 30 - Collingwood - Isaac Keeler
North Adelaide | SA
Tall Forward/ Ruck
198 cm 90 kg
Rationale; Another tall prospect linked to the Pies in the past month, with this pick they've added one to every line this draft. It does feel a tad too tall for one draft, but there wasn't really a midfielder that stuck out as someone I think will go around this range.

Considerations; Mitch Szybkowski has spoken to Collingwood a bit and fits as a contested mid with clean hands and composure, I think at the actual draft they might trade up into the 30's to nab him, if they have future picks idk. Coby Burgiel and Noah Long would also be considerations given their ability to impact on the inside

Pick 31 - GWS (matched Bid) - Harry Rowston
Calder Cannons | NSW/ACT
Inside Midfielder/ General Forward
182 cm 81 kg
Rationale; Midfielders that can impact up forward are increasingly more important at AFL level, with Stringer, De Goey, Petracca, Dusty, Danger all being the sorts that clubs have tried to find for the past few years, so Rowston's going to be looked at quite favourably I imagine, I wouldn't be shocked to see this bid come closer to 20 on draft night. I also think we'll see GWS trade 31 along with 19 someone
GWS use Pick 34 to match

Pick 32 - St Kilda - Coby Burgiel
Gippsland Power | VIC Country
Balanced Midfielder/ General Utility
183 cm 80 kg
Rationale; Missing out on Rowston, St Kilda go for someone with similar ability to impact in different roles, and I think with his speed and versatility he's a bit of an open canvas for whoever picks him up.

Pick 33 - Carlton - Noah Long
Bendigo Pioneers | VIC Country
Inside Midfielder/ Small Forward
177 cm 73 kg
Rationale; They apparently need small forwards and Long has really proven his ability to impact inside 50 this year due to injury, and the potential to return to the inside will appeal in the long run to clubs.

Pick 34 - Fremantle - Blake Drury
Oakleigh Chargers | VIC Metro
Inside Midfielder/ Small Forward
176 cm 73 kg
Rationale; They also apparently need small forwards, and not necessarily goal machines. It seems that JL rates forwards that apply high pressure and Drury does that well when he's up forward. His tenacity will also appeal as someone that could rotate with Serong if the time ever calls for it.

Pick 35 - St Kilda - Jaiden Magor
South Adelaide | SA
Inside Midfielder/ General Forward
184 cm 75 kg
Rationale; Could almost copy and paste the Rowston explanation, Magor brings the same threat as an inside ball winner and forward threat with his leap and marking, and I think it's the best option given they missed out on JDG

Pick 36 - Port Adelaide - Jed Adams
East Fremantle | WA
Tall Defender
196 cm 89 kg
Rationale; Theme here; they need key defenders and Adams is simply the one I rate highest at this position (once again noting I haven't watched Ethan Phillips, but he could definitely be selected here). He's well balanced between lockdown and intercept, so could realistically partner anyone else they pick up in coming years.

Pick 37 - Melbourne - Jakob Ryan
Glenelg | SA
General Defender
189 cm 79 kg
Rationale; Melbourne value damage on the rebound in their back flankers and Ryan brings that in spades. I'm not sure if Hunt was best 22, but with him leaving and Hibberd getting older some more depth in this area won't be a bad move. I think he goes much higher on the night fwiw.

 

[weltschmerz]

Phillipou and Hayes

Hustwaite at 28 would be a bloody steal.

 

[bird_man]

I'd be surprised if we went for 3 midfielders with our first 3 picks

No doubt we need to add some top end talent to our midfield but we did use our first 3 picks last year on mids and all played a fair bit of footy this year.

We need to find key position players at either end. There seem to be a few choices with our picks in the 30's

 

[TylerDurden]

Tsatas and George

 

[Futbolista]

Hmmmm...Jed Adams is pretty high mate..........have you got the inside word? I rate him but he hasn't got much attention until now.

 

[PMBangers]

Hmmmm...Jed Adams is pretty high mate..........have you got the inside word? I rate him but he hasn't got much attention until now.

I'll freely admit after 30 it's more my opinion than informed word, and I just rate him as the best KPD left (noting that I haven't seen Ethan Phillips). I considered Foster as well, but feel his role is more likely forward at the next level

 

[Rusty Beam]

Inconsistency at the Champs against players he's far more developed than concerned me a lot, I was giving it the 'benefit of the doubt' with his senior form given it was a fair step up and he wasn't getting the midfield opportunities he probably needed to impact further on games. It's something he's admitted to being disappointed by as well, wanted to use the Champs to prove he's the best of his peers and didn't fully take the opportunity.

Fair enough. He’s game against Metro was fairly outstanding though.

Without bringing up the war too much, based on this reasoning Horne Francis should have had more question marks also (admittedly there was a much smaller champs/rep sample size).

I’m also not going to pretend I’ve watched him at WAFL level, more than bits and pieces (I just don’t have the time), but on the face of it his stats suggest a similar level of involvement as JHF’s were in the SANFL too.

I guess we’ll find out soon. But I’d love for the Pies to take him if he’s there at 16. There’s a lot of JDG about the way he plays IMO. Who himself struggled with inconsistency and took a few years to find his feet at the level.

 

[PMBangers]

Fair enough. He’s game against Metro was fairly outstanding though.

Without bringing up the war too much, based on this reasoning Horne Francis should have had more question marks also (admittedly there was a much smaller champs/rep sample size).

I’m also not going to pretend I’ve watched him at WAFL level, more than bits and pieces (I just don’t have the time), but on the face of it his stats suggest a similar level of involvement as JHF’s were in the SANFL too.

I guess we’ll find out soon. But I’d love for the Pies to take him if he’s there at 16. There’s a lot of JDG about the way he plays IMO. Who himself struggled with inconsistency and took a few years to find his feet at the level.

I think they key differences are that JHF wasn't as physically developed as Hewett is and wasn't limited in impact up forward, he was consistently still involved in some way and got a bit more attention than Elijah. That's the performance side of it of course, traits wise I think outside of athleticism (which isn't a huge difference between them) JHF just does most things much better, in particular he was more of an aerial threat and had better defensive intent

 

[Sphynx]

I think Van Es goes here somewhere. He simply has to.

In a weaker pool, a club is plucking him in the 20-30 range imo with his athletic profile.

He’s genuine KPP size unlike some others in this range and is essentially a physical mixture of Josh Gibcus (elite - height/vertical/arm length) and with Alex Rances natural body size (already 100kgs..) and has Rance’s explosiveness over 5/10m splits.

He just ticks too many boxes for a project KPD that has top level AFL athleticism in pretty much every key category recruiters are looking for in AFL defenders.

 

[PMBangers]

I think Van Es goes here somewhere. He simply has to.

In a weaker pool, a club is plucking him in the 20-30 range imo with his athletic profile.

He’s genuine KPP size unlike some others in this range and is essentially a mixture of Josh Gibcus (elite - height/vertical/arm length) and with Alex Rances natural body size and explosiveness over 5/10m splits.

He just ticks to many boxes for a project KPD that has top level AFL athleticism in pretty much every key category for AFL defenders

Certainly a possibility, and we see so often clubs willing to take players with high end athleticism earlier on even if they are project players. I just can't help but shake the feeling he's 40-rookie Pick given the only development left is in his craft when he's not a late comer to footy

 

[Rusty Beam]

I think they key differences are that JHF wasn't as physically developed as Hewett is and wasn't limited in impact up forward, he was consistently still involved in some way and got a bit more attention than Elijah. That's the performance side of it of course, traits wise I think outside of athleticism (which isn't a huge difference between them) JHF just does most things much better, in particular he was more of an aerial threat and had better defensive intent

Appreciate your thoughts mate.

Personally I think they are similarly physically developed (as when JHF was drafted). Any difference would be marginal.

Anyway will be interesting to see where he goes. Just to my mind it seems like a crazy fall from grace, given the player I think he could be.

 

[Chris25]

So maybe Hewett is better than Daicos too…

 

[PMBangers]

boy am I hoping there's no pick trades between now and Tuesday that ruins all of this work!

I would like declare that I hate both the Fremantle Football Club and the North Melbourne Football Club

 

[Big_Newon]

When is the 3rd round coming out?

 

[PMBangers]

When is the 3rd round coming out?

When I have emotionally recovered from this betrayal

 

[RedmanWasHere]

When I have emotionally recovered from this betrayal

EMOTIONAL DAMAGE!

 

[Sleezy]

Hi PMBangers . Apparently we've agreed to list Nathan Barkla as a Cat B rookie. Looks like he didn't even score a state combine invite. Have you seen much of him?

There have been some overly optimistic completely realistic comparisons to Connor Rozee

1

Connor Rozee

Age

24

Ht

185cm

Wt

79kg

Pos.

Mid

Career

Season

Last 5

D

14.6

4star

K

7.6

3star

HB

7.0

4star

M

3.3

3star

T

3.6

5star

CL

1.0

3star

D

12.8

3star

K

7.4

3star

HB

5.3

3star

M

2.9

3star

T

2.4

3star

CL

1.6

4star

D

16.4

4star

K

8.0

3star

HB

8.4

5star

M

4.2

4star

T

3.4

5star

CL

0.8

3star

on our board. Any additional thoughts, preferably grounded in reality?