Who would you have JMac target this year?

[bulldogsthru&thru]

Adelaide have major salary cap pressure because they had to give Joe the Goose Jenkins a ridiculously large and long term contract last year, and they already have Talia, Betts, Walker and others on large contracts (fair enough too). Lever is very gettable if he wants to come home.

Yep. And they still need to sign Sloane and McGovern too. So someone will be squeezed out. Can't see Sloane leaving so it means Lever will have to take a pay cut to stay in Adelaide as opposed to returning home for more money.

[Mantis]

* Let Hrovat, Hamling & Stevens go for little... If nothing else they all offered depth and weren't replaced. Hamling was more than depth. Market dictates what you get, and Hrovat & Stevens barely best 22, Hamling -maybe could have got more, who knows.


We didn't replace the depth is what I'm getting at.. Bar Cloke we didn't bring in any 'ready to go players'... We did add Crameri and the LTI's from last year, but our draftee's are all long term investments.


* Re-signed Hamilton who is yet to play. - Is that JMacs decision or football department want him


Would think the list manager has a fair say in it.. That's his job.


* Re-signed Prudden who is always injured. Signed as a Rookie not a senior player - again Football department decision.

Still takes up spot on a list & resources.



* Bungled the JJ deal... Had to call in re-inforcements (C.Grant) Bungled mmmmmm - 5 year deal, the Grant report was that really correct?


All good in hindsight.


* Re-signed Picken, Roberts & Smith perhaps earlier than we needed to and all are really battling now. Deserved it, player of the finals - got us a premiership

Picken helped get us a premiership, but we went against a previous policy of 1yr deals for 30+ players.. I hope he can turn it around, but the signs aren't positive.

The other 2 have been nothing other than ordinary this year and if they were uncontracted at present we woudl be looking to move them on.. Clay had a brilliant finals series, but has slowed considerably since then and is offering us nothing.. Fletcher gets hidden when surrounded by good players (playing well) and a team defence, but is (and always has been) a battler when left to fend for himself... Haven't seen many 6'5" players offer less in a physical contest than Fletch.


I think you are being very harsh

Harsh or not questions need to be asked on why we have dropped off considerably this year and I don't think the points I have raised are unfair in anyway.

[jeemak]

You make reasonable points, I just really disagree that McCartney can be called out for bungling the JJ deal by having to call in management reinforcements - if that's what actually happened. That happens in commercial negotiations all the time, from all accounts we signed him well and truly in the ball park of what was put on the table some time ago.

I suppose you might know something we don't, however.

[Remi Moses]

We should gave walked away from the Hamling deal. Its all well and good providing the players with what they want, but what about the club? The club that scraped him up and gave him another chance? That provided him with a premiership? We should have held out for a better deal or let him walk to the PSD. Messages to the playing group work both ways

Then we'd have posters crying foul for letting him go for nothing . It's not wise to adopt the "Dodoro" at trade time , as it may come back to bite you on the arse . Good relationships are important with other clubs . Disappointed Hamling left, but it was his choice .

[Remi Moses]

Gee mantis I think you're doing some hindsight posting yourself .
Clay Smith thouroughly deserved on form to be signed , as did Picken .
Johannisen deal is about right, yes he's out of form , but line breaking back man are in great demand .

[1eyedog]

I wouldn't say he's slow. He's 27 and a mature body to put around the ball. He's numbers this year across the entire competition are huge, from top 4 to top 20 in his kicking, his inside 50's, tackling, clearances, contested possessions etc. Hes getting about 28 touches a game with a disposal efficiency better than Dustin Martins too.

So for me, he's a ready made midfielder who wins the hard contested ball, clears it out like a machine, puts tackling pressure on, kicks more than others which includes a lot more inside 50's. Mark's it about 6 times a game and has rebounds out of defensive 50. A bloke who has good offense and good defence, has work ethic running both ways, and works on pressure wherever he is on the ground takes us closer towards what we had last year. A bloke who knows how to deliver it a lot into the forward 50 many times a game is also a good thing.

We could do far, far worse than Rockliff. I like his goal sense too. FWIW I think JJ is on 100k too much and even then 550k for him would be good coin. Needs to get himself back in the winners circle pronto. If he's asking the 700k range he can't be having 5-6 week form slumps.

[GVGjr]

I'll probably warm to Lever coming to the Dogs if it gains momentum rather than just speculation but I'd hate to have to cough up an early first round pick to make it happen.

Can Lever play on the bigger key forwards or is he more of a taller version of Easton Wood who's main strength is intercept marking?

[bulldogtragic]

We could do far, far worse than Rockliff. I like his goal sense too. FWIW I think JJ is on 100k too much and even then 550k for him would be good coin. Needs to get himself back in the winners circle pronto. If he's asking the 700k range he can't be having 5-6 week form slumps.

Agree that expectations rise for JJ. I hope he meets them. If we were offering $650,000 for 4 years on Rockliff, the Frawley precedent says they get picks 2. Plus drafting Callenden mid first rounder as an academy player. That's a huge draft for them, effectively picks 1, 2 & 10.

If they wanted a draft points trade to assist with Callenden, completely separate of course, they could get an extra 171 points or so by giving us pick 19 for our second and Norths third (26/27 & 38 or so). For us that's huge, pick 8/9 plus pick 19 and Rockliff. That gets some good trades done, such as Lever, a talented small forward etc.

[1eyedog]

I'll probably warm to Lever coming to the Dogs if it gains momentum rather than just speculation but I'd hate to have to cough up an early first round pick to make it happen.

Can Lever play on the bigger key forwards or is he more of a taller version of Easton Wood who's main strength is intercept marking?

Highly mobile, excellent spoiler and really good at ground play for a 6'5. Dale Morris' defending ability with Wood's magnetism. Really like him and think the acquisition will assist to free up Wood for a more attacking role.

Perfect age profile sign him on a long term deal so he can grow with the rest of the pups.

[bulldogtragic]

I'll probably warm to Lever coming to the Dogs if it gains momentum rather than just speculation but I'd hate to have to cough up an early first round pick to make it happen.

Can Lever play on the bigger key forwards or is he more of a taller version of Easton Wood who's main strength is intercept marking?

Hopefully that's Collins job, getting the big guys, when he's to the level. Then Lever & Cordy taking tall guys, Wood covering all too. Lever & Wood would a dynamic intercepting duo. I don't mind Adams as a forward or swing man, with Cordy able to swing with match ups. If that came about, it would be a very versatile, agile, athletic bunch of talls and more so if Young develops on. I like how it would pan out, although signing Roberts for two years would just be a depth player with these guys ahead of him.

[1eyedog]

Agree that expectations rise for JJ. I hope he meets them. If we were offering $650,000 for 4 years on Rockliff, the Frawley precedent says they get picks 2. Plus drafting Callenden mid first rounder as an academy player. That's a huge draft for them, effectively picks 1, 2 & 10.

If they wanted a draft points trade to assist with Callenden, completely separate of course, they could get an extra 171 points or so by giving us pick 19 for our second and Norths third (26/27 & 38 or so). For us that's huge, pick 8/9 plus pick 19 and Rockliff. That gets some good trades done, such as Lever, a talented small forward etc.

I would be very happy with this outcome. The ability to add Rockliff and Lever and give Dal a top 20 would be daylight robbery. We know about Lever but I just think Rockliff needs new air to breath. Not sure about the Melbourne cauldron for him, but he can kick, find the footy and is dangerous forward of centre. Is an absolute mongrel too which I like. Finals-type player. Would be excellent for us.

[1eyedog]

Hopefully that's Collins job, getting the big guys, when he's to the level. Then Lever & Cordy taking tall guys, Wood covering all too. Lever & Wood would a dynamic intercepting duo. I don't mind Adams as a forward or swing man, with Cordy able to swing with match ups. If that came about, it would be a very versatile, agile, athletic bunch of talls and more so if Young develops on. I like how it would pan out, although signing Roberts for two years would just be a depth player with these guys ahead of him.

Yep Collins was of course supposedly the 2nd best tall in the draft and we were astonished he fell to our second round. Maybe a late bloomer but he has time on his side and is reportedly still growing. Could well be the back stop we need for the next 8-10 years. I'm still very optimistic.

[GVGjr]

Hopefully that's Collins job, getting the big guys, when he's to the level. Then Lever & Cordy taking tall guys, Wood covering all too. Lever & Wood would a dynamic intercepting duo. I don't mind Adams as a forward or swing man, with Cordy able to swing with match ups. If that came about, it would be a very versatile, agile, athletic bunch of talls and more so if Young develops on. I like how it would pan out, although signing Roberts for two years would just be a depth player with these guys ahead of him.

I don't think Collins would be ready next year but maybe after that. I don't mind Adams as a forward either.
If we are going to pay the amount that has been rumored (yes it's speculation) I just don't know if was are paying a premium both in dollars and with an early draft pick for a player that isn't a star?

Basically we would be using the money we would have used for Hurley last year and is Lever as good as him?

[GVGjr]

Highly mobile, excellent spoiler and really good at ground play for a 6'5. Dale Morris' defending ability with Wood's magnetism. Really like him and think the acquisition will assist to free up Wood for a more attacking role.

Perfect age profile sign him on a long term deal so he can grow with the rest of the pups.

By the sounds of things opposition teams will need kryptonite to stop him :)
I'll do some research but how does he go when pitted against the bigger key forwards like Kennedy, Hawkins and Franklin?

[bulldogtragic]

I don't think Collins would be ready next year but maybe after that. I don't mind Adams as a forward either.
If we are going to pay the amount that has been rumored (yes it's speculation) I just don't know if was are paying a premium both in dollars and with an early draft pick for a player that isn't a star?

Basically we would be using the money we would have used for Hurley last year and is Lever as good as him?

Perhaps not yet, but he's looking a likely type though. I've no problems in paying the new market rate, when there's a handful of teams chasing him. They also still wants Gibbs. There's a good set of trades for us, Adelaide & Carlton.

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

Perhaps not yet, but he's looking a likely type though. I've no problems in paying the new market rate, when there's a handful of teams chasing him. They also still wants Gibbs. There's a good set of trades for us, Adelaide & Carlton.

Without an early pick courtesy of JJ's decision to stay..is just a 1st round pick around 8 to 10 going to satisfy Adelaide's demands?
I'm making a big assumption that we at least finish at least 10th

[bulldogtragic]

Without an early pick courtesy of JJ's decision to stay..is just a 1st round pick around 8 to 10 going to satisfy Adelaide's demands?
I'm making a big assumption that we at least finish at least 10th

Just using precedent. Jaeger O'Meara last year was a pick in that range (pick 10) and a future second rounder (probably going to be pick 25 this year). If Lever is of equal worth, add in 2018 second rounder (or a player we'd happily part with). A top 10 pick is still a good offer nonetheless.

[Remi Moses]

Perhaps not yet, but he's looking a likely type though. I've no problems in paying the new market rate, when there's a handful of teams chasing him. They also still wants Gibbs. There's a good set of trades for us, Adelaide & Carlton.

I think he's just as good if not better than Hurley at his age . Interesting times

[Sedat]

Did anyone hear the 5AA grab of Jake Lever's interview tonight? Goneski

[bulldogtragic]

Did anyone hear the 5AA grab of Jake Lever's interview tonight? Goneski

Is that the one where he picked Bob's jumper number 2 for next year?

[Sedat]

Is that the one where he picked Bob's jumper number 2 for next year?
Did everything but to be honest. Was asked about whether or not it would be better to have the contract issue finalised before finals and his response was "I'm not sure I even want to have it finalised before then". Ominous for the Crows.

[Doc26]

Did anyone hear the 5AA grab of Jake Lever's interview tonight? Goneski

Was it the segment based on the following?


FIVEaa’s Stephen Rowe says he is concerned about Adelaide’s chances of keeping Jake Lever after revealing Lever’s partner has not renewed her teaching contract at a local Adelaide school.
“I’ve had the ‘I’s and the ‘T’s crossed here,” Rowey said on Monday. “I’m going to be very careful with my wording because I don’t want to burn any parties. When a third party is brought into the equation -- a la a partner -- we are all very loath to do so.”

Rowey continued:

“Jake’s long term partner hasn’t renewed her teaching contract with what I would call a prominent Adelaide college -- [she] finished up on Friday.

“You read into that as you will. But for me, that’s not a positive sign.”

[bulldogtragic]

Did everything but to be honest. Was asked about whether or not it would be better to have the contract issue finalised before finals and his response was "I'm not sure I even want to have it finalised before then". Ominous for the Crows.

Unlike the Marchbank race last year, we seem to be charging to the front in this race this year. I hope we get him.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Did anyone hear the 5AA grab of Jake Lever's interview tonight? Goneski

Nope - can you summarise?

On Lever, he's more your second key defender. Paired with Wood, they would be quite a dynamic duo. If we could either a) keep Adams fit or b) find/develop a lock down big key defender, we'd have a complete defensive group.

The 'big' defender doesn't need to be a star - I look at Nathan Brown and he'd be more than adequate, for example. Perhaps Collins can be that player for us.

[bulldogsthru&thru]

So Lever's family and JMacs supposedly know each other. Presumably through Levers dad. So that's the connection. Not sure if that helps us or not. Also might mean the sightings of JMac and Levers dad wasn't so circumspect

Edit: JMac and Levers dad know each other via AIS

[Twodogs]

A guess based on geography. Lever is from Romsey. Redders is from somewhere like next door Kyneton. It's a small world out there. You'd think they'd know each other. If true, it explains why after Redders missed his set shot late in the game, he was joking and laughing with Lever.

Kyneton and Romsey aren't that closeby are they? Kyneton is Castlemaine/Bendigo way and Romsey is somewhere else. Is it near camplefield?


All but signed up with Carlton.

I'm guessing with our offer to Lever we aren't in the race at all for Josh Kelly. Would love to get him. Hopefully we land our man this year. Would hate to miss out again a la Hurley.

It's usually the ones we don't hear about that Jmac lands. Maybe we are into Kelly. I hope so.




I don't get the attraction of Rockliff. Just adds to our one pace midfield.

Me either.


Declan Hamilton is an out and out gun. Maybe we can add him in.

Oh yeah. Big Decca!


Then we'd have posters crying foul for letting him go for nothing . It's not wise to adopt the "Dodoro" at trade time , as it may come back to bite you on the arse . Good relationships are important with other clubs . Disappointed Hamling left, but it was his choice .

I'd be surprised if the powers that be were that concerned with what we had to say.

[The Pie Man]

Lever does sound like he's off.

If it's us (and of course I hope it is) best of luck dealing with those dirty birds

[bulldogtragic]

Outskirts of Kyenton to outskirts of Romsey probably seperate by only about 25km of farms. So in farm and farmers way not that much. It wouldn't surprise me with the perceived inappropriate emotional response by Redders in joking with Lever after missing a set shot, that they might know each other well enough. Just seems a really odd thing to do unless you know him well enough.

That's just BT tea leaf reading though.

[KT31]

What connection does Lever have with us?

Future Doggies Premiership, Norm Smith Medalist.😀

[bornadog]

Outskirts of Kyenton to outskirts of Romsey probably seperate by only about 25km of farms. So in farm and farmers way not that much. It wouldn't surprise me with the perceived inappropriate emotional response by Redders in joking with Lever after missing a set shot, that they might know each other well enough. Just seems a really odd thing to do unless you know him well enough.

That's just BT tea leaf reading though.

There is a big difference in age, however, their families may know each other.

[KT31]

Adelaide will want more than our first round, I suspect a player will be in the mix.
Anyone have an idea who they would realistically will target ?

[bornadog]

Adelaide will want more than our first round, I suspect a player will in the mix.
Anyone have an idea who they would realistically will target ?

They need midfielders I would say.

[bulldogtragic]

Adelaide will want more than our first round, I suspect a player will in the mix.
Anyone have an idea who they would realistically will target ?

Our SA boys are Daniel, Williams, Hamilton & Young. I presume they want a local who won't have a 'go home factor'.

If we have to go more, then I'd prefer a 2018 second rounder making it nearly identical to the O'Meara trade.

[GVGjr]

I've had a look at Levers form line for this year and concede he's had a very good season.

[kruder]

I've had a look at Levers form line for this year and concede he's had a very good season.

Say we have to give up pick 10 at least, would there be a midfielder of quality still at that point in a draft this year? Since we went for KP types last year I was really hoping a mid with speed and skill might be around with our first pick?

[kruder]

Just a reminder for all Lever has done an ACL before.

[bulldogtragic]

Just a reminder for all Lever has done an ACL before.

Who at the dogs hasn't done an ACL! :D

I just did mine walking and typing this on my iPad. Off to my surgeon tomorrow and hopefully some decent posts in 12 months.

[kruder]

Adelaide will want more than our first round, I suspect a player will be in the mix.
Anyone have an idea who they would realistically will target ?

They will ask for Caleb to start with for sure.

[bornadog]

Adelaide tables offer to in-demand defender (http://www.afl.com.au/news/2017-07-11/adelaide-tables-offer-to-indemand-defender-lever)


ADELAIDE has put an offer to in-demand defender Jake Lever, but he's in no rush to sign on the dotted line as rival clubs line up for his services.

Lever and his management held off negotiations until a new collective bargaining agreement between the AFL and the AFL Players' Association was finalised.

But Lever confirmed on Tuesday afternoon the Crows had made an offer through his manager Ned Guy.
"The Crows have tabled something, so it's about talking about it with my manager and (partner) Jess and deciding," Lever told radio station 5AA.

"I haven't put a timeline on it; whenever it gets done, it gets done.
"I'm not sure I want it to be done before the finals, because if it's a decision I have to make, I don't want to be rushed into it just because it's just before finals.

"It's important to think about everything and get everything negotiated.

"I trust my manager and I trust the club."

Lever emphasised he is happy at the Crows and his focus is solely on performing his role for the team.

Despite all the ongoing speculation where he might play next year, Lever's form on the field hasn't faltered.
He was superb in last Friday night's 59-point thumping of the Western Bulldogs with 22 possessions and 11 marks.

It's been reported the Bulldogs are prepared to table a lucrative five-year deal to Lever in the vicinity of $4.25 million.

A meeting between Lever's dad and Bulldogs list manager Jason McCartney last weekend added fuel to the fire, but Lever said it was simply a case of two friends catching up.

"My dad is mates with Jason McCartney and went away to Europe together on the AIS trip and go to know each other, so I wouldn't read anything into that," Lever said.

[GVGjr]

Say we have to give up pick 10 at least, would there be a midfielder of quality still at that point in a draft this year? Since we went for KP types last year I was really hoping a mid with speed and skill might be around with our first pick?

There would most likely still be a few guys available

[jazzadogs]

They will ask for Caleb to start with for sure.

Am I overrating Caleb in saying that if he was part of the trade, then the draft pick should be no higher than a second rounder?

FWIW I absolutely do not want him to be part of a trade. Caleb is a genuine talent in my view with an elite skillset with his vision/decision-making.

[S Coast Simon]

Daniel is an elite mover like Sam Mitchel,they are dam hard to get a hold of. I don't remember Mitchel being as good as Caleb at his age. He is definitely not on the table. Only up for this lad when everyone is putting in. What they would be entitled to for an absolute gun like Lever, he tore us a new one the other night, is something like pick 10 and a Webb or Williams as the cherry on top. And boy is he worth it. 195 and moves like that with judgement and vice like hands. Soon to be the best defender in the league in my opinion. I don't want to jinks him but he has Morris like concentration to his job, almost robotic like he is that determined.

[Bulldog4life]

Adelaide tables offer to in-demand defender (http://www.afl.com.au/news/2017-07-11/adelaide-tables-offer-to-indemand-defender-lever)


ADELAIDE has put an offer to in-demand defender Jake Lever, but he's in no rush to sign on the dotted line as rival clubs line up for his services.

Lever and his management held off negotiations until a new collective bargaining agreement between the AFL and the AFL Players' Association was finalised.

But Lever confirmed on Tuesday afternoon the Crows had made an offer through his manager Ned Guy.
"The Crows have tabled something, so it's about talking about it with my manager and (partner) Jess and deciding," Lever told radio station 5AA.

"I haven't put a timeline on it; whenever it gets done, it gets done.
"I'm not sure I want it to be done before the finals, because if it's a decision I have to make, I don't want to be rushed into it just because it's just before finals.

"It's important to think about everything and get everything negotiated.

"I trust my manager and I trust the club."

Lever emphasised he is happy at the Crows and his focus is solely on performing his role for the team.

Despite all the ongoing speculation where he might play next year, Lever's form on the field hasn't faltered.
He was superb in last Friday night's 59-point thumping of the Western Bulldogs with 22 possessions and 11 marks.

It's been reported the Bulldogs are prepared to table a lucrative five-year deal to Lever in the vicinity of $4.25 million.

A meeting between Lever's dad and Bulldogs list manager Jason McCartney last weekend added fuel to the fire, but Lever said it was simply a case of two friends catching up.

"My dad is mates with Jason McCartney and went away to Europe together on the AIS trip and go to know each other, so I wouldn't read anything into that," Lever said.

Certainly doesn't do our chances any harm that JMac is friends with Mr. Lever. A big plus for mine.

[bulldogsthru&thru]

Adelaide will want more than our first round, I suspect a player will be in the mix.
Anyone have an idea who they would realistically will target ?

It doesn't really matter if Jake nominates the Bulldogs. They way it seems to work these days is the player nominates the club he wishes to go to and a deal will have to be done. Obviously we will make a deal in good faith but we won't be giving up any players we wish to keep and whom are happy to stay. Now if Caleb has a desire to go home that's a different story. But my god we cannot give up any of our good ball users.

[bulldogsthru&thru]

Our SA boys are Daniel, Williams, Hamilton & Young. I presume they want a local who won't have a 'go home factor'.

If we have to go more, then I'd prefer a 2018 second rounder making it nearly identical to the O'Meara trade.

*sigh*

apart from Hamilton the rest of those boys are needed on our list. Probably contain our best ball users. We might have to give up Young which i don't like.

[bornadog]

*sigh*

apart from Hamilton the rest of those boys are needed on our list. Probably contain our best ball users. We might have to give up Young which i don't like.

You have to give up something good to get something good. They won't want a tall, as they have plenty, plus Young is completely unproven. They may want draft picks, so a deal would have to be worked out, perhaps involving other players and another club.

[bulldogsthru&thru]

You have to give up something good to get something good. They won't want a tall, as they have plenty, plus Young is completely unproven. They may want draft picks, so a deal would have to be worked out, perhaps involving other players and another club.

I wasn't implying just Young. Thinking our first plus Young. Might be our first plus a future 2nd. They'll want picks to go after Gibbs and/or Hopper

Edit: Feel like i'm getting ahead of myself here. Don't want to get hopes up like last year. Will think about trade value once it's official he wants to join the doggies.

[Mofra]

Gee mantis I think you're doing some hindsight posting yourself .
Clay Smith thouroughly deserved on form to be signed , as did Picken .
Johannisen deal is about right, yes he's out of form , but line breaking back man are in great demand .
Picken deserved a contract, but 2 years vs 1 was a concern a few posters raised at the time.

[Remi Moses]

Picken deserved a contract, but 2 years vs 1 was a concern a few posters raised at the time.

Picken at his age I'll concede was risky , but Smith deserved another contract .He was immense in the month that counts

[Ozza]

Perhaps Picken could revert to a more defensive/run-with role as a bit of a circuit breaker to help find some form. Starting with Docherty this week.

[Axe Man]

If Kelly is unobtainable would we chase Hopper?

Clubs circling the other out-of-contract Giant mid (http://www.afl.com.au/news/2017-07-12/numerous-clubs-circling-out-of-contract-giant-jacob-hopper)

MOST attention surrounds Josh Kelly's future with Greater Western Sydney, but clubs continue to circle fellow young Giant Jacob Hopper as the midfielder delays a call on his own contract situation.

Hopper's original two-year contract expires with the Giants at the end of this season, and he is unlikely to make a decision on his next move until then. He hasn't played since round seven since injuring his finger and subsequently his ankle at training.

AFL.com.au understands Hopper, a graduate of the club's academy program, has a preference at this stage to remain with the Giants, but that rivals continue to eye the ball-winner who made a stunning debut last season when he gathered 32 disposals in round eight against Gold Coast.

Geelong and Collingwood have been linked to Hopper, but non-Victorian clubs Adelaide and the Brisbane Lions are also among the teams believed to be monitoring his decision.

Hopper joined the club with its first pick (No.7 overall) at the 2015 NAB AFL Draft, and was followed by Matthew Kennedy (No.13) and Harrison Himmelberg (No.16) as fellow first-round academy picks.

All three remain unsigned for next year, with contract discussions recently opening with Himmelberg for a new deal but no movement with Kennedy, who has played 11 senior games this season and averaged 18 disposals.

Hopper grew up in Leeton, which fell in the Giants' New South Wales academy region, but moved to Ballarat as a teenager to study at St Patrick's College and played with the Rebels in the TAC Cup.

The Giants' unsigned trio are among a small group of first-round picks from the 2015 draft who are yet to commit beyond this season, alongside Essendon's Darcy Parish, Richmond's Daniel Rioli and Adelaide defender Tom Doedee.

Greater Western Sydney recently locked away its first three picks from last year's draft – Will Setterfield, Tim Taranto and Harry Perryman – to two-year contract extensions which tie them to the club until the end of 2020.

[bulldogsthru&thru]

I'm not sure if we need Hopper. I mean he would be a great addition as he is a great player, but might be more of what we already have and for the price we'd have to pay probably not worth it. His not the most skilled player and isn't overly quick either.

[Mantis]

Picken at his age I'll concede was risky , but Smith deserved another contract .He was immense in the month that counts

Smith was very good in the finals, but he is miles off that form now.. Looks really slow and lacking mobility which is limiting his ability to apply forward pressure.

Hopefully another pre-season does him wonders because on his form in 2017 he doesn't look like he will be a regular member of our team moving forward.

[Happy Days]

Just got fed a rumour that GWS are into Lever as part of a three way deal to get Gibbs to Adelaide, should Kelly decide to leave for Carlton.

Sounds like bullshit but thought it was some food for thought. Would be really annoying if Lever was to leave (Leve?) Adelaide and not come to us.

Edit - so let's say that this is the case, I'd have the trade working out something like;

Adelaide - Give: Lever, 3rd Pick, Get: Gibbs, Carlton's 2nd
GWS - Give: Kelly, Get: Lever, Adelaide's 3rd
Carlton - Give: Gibbs, 2nd, Get: Kelly

If this is so, then we have to top Gibbs and a 2nd round pick, probably around 20 or so. Would our first and a Bailey Williams do it? I'm not sold.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Just got fed a rumour that GWS are into Lever as part of a three way deal to get Gibbs to Adelaide, should Kelly decide to leave for Carlton.

Sounds like bullshit but thought it was some food for thought. Would be really annoying if Lever was to leave (Leve?) Adelaide and not come to us.

Edit - so let's say that this is the case, I'd have the trade working out something like;

Adelaide - Give: Lever, 3rd Pick, Get: Gibbs, Carlton's 2nd
GWS - Give: Kelly, Get: Lever, Adelaide's 3rd
Carlton - Give: Gibbs, 2nd, Get: Kelly

If this is so, then we have to top Gibbs and a 2nd round pick, probably around 20 or so. Would our first and a Bailey Williams do it? I'm not sold.

The only reason Lever would leave Adelaide is to return home (Victoria).

Not as though he will be short on offers from a Victorian based club, either.

[Happy Days]

The only reason Lever would leave Adelaide is to return home (Victoria).

Not as though he will be short on offers from a Victorian based club, either.

Just like how Mitch Clark was only going to go to his home state of Perth?

[ledge]

Lever being from Romsey would love to Come to us if that chance came up and would be his first Choice . That's the feel I get.
It's just dealing with the crows is the hard part and I'm not sure Adelaide and us are on good terms going on recent history.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Just like how Mitch Clark was only going to go to his home state of Perth?

Not comparing apples with apples here. Quite a lot of variables in play (Melbourne were extremely cashed up and GWS aren't - Clark's character was questionable at best and Lever is touted as captain material).

In this scenario, Lever will earn more money playing in his home state and have his choice of 10 clubs.

It would make zero sense for him to go to GWS financially or geographically.

[ledge]

Not comparing apples with apples here. Quite a lot of variables in play (Melbourne were extremely cashed up and GWS aren't - Clark's character was questionable at best and Lever is touted as captain material).

In this scenario, Lever will earn more money playing in his home state and have his choice of 10 clubs.

It would make zero sense for him to go to GWS financially or geographically.

Unless he looks at premierships. Let's face it they will win a few in the near future.
And you get bonuses, fame and in the history books, sets you up for life in the media or a lot of other doors , coaching etc after retirement.

[1eyedog]

I hope we've got an offer in to both Kelly and Lever given we can spend big. We need to have our fingers in the pie and play this both ways, then take the first to agree to terms. JMac will have learnt his lesson with the Hurley debacle and, if this is the way we want to play it, will know that he needs to play Russian roulette on this.

We can afford to do this both in terms of the cash and also as far as personnel goes as both players fit our needs.

[Remi Moses]

Smith was very good in the finals, but he is miles off that form now.. Looks really slow and lacking mobility which is limiting his ability to apply forward pressure.

Hopefully another pre-season does him wonders because on his form in 2017 he doesn't look like he will be a regular member of our team moving forward.

Had to be re-signed on that form at least . Maybe the knee recos have caught up with him, and he's become comfortable with the flag

[ledge]

Smith was very good in the finals, but he is miles off that form now.. Looks really slow and lacking mobility which is limiting his ability to apply forward pressure.

Hopefully another pre-season does him wonders because on his form in 2017 he doesn't look like he will be a regular member of our team moving forward.

To be honest it's hard to put any pressure on with the way the ball is being delivered straight to the opposition backman. We lead and they put it 4 metres behind us . Right on target to the opposition .

[always right]

Any interest in Puopolo? A quick small forward who can leap and apply pressure would be handy.

[jeemak]

Any interest in Puopolo? A quick small forward who can leap and apply pressure would be handy.

Ding ding ding ding!

I called him out about a week or two ago.........so yes my fellow Wheelers Hill roughnut, I'm into Poppy (I hate Bruce).

[boydogs]

Rockliff has been horrendously mismanaged at Brisbane. He is capable of doing for another club what Tom Mitchell has done for Hawthorn this year

[bulldogtragic]

Rockliff has been horrendously mismanaged at Brisbane. He is capable of doing for another club what Tom Mitchell has done for Hawthorn this year

Music to my ears to hear another calling for Rockliff. His entire career has been the lingering shit from Fev, Voss sacked, gun players leaving, Leppitsch sacked, gun players leaving and being captain of a club that was going nowhere quick with the responsibility of being the main midfielder. Put him in a team where he gets some more time and space with the freedom of great mids around him, and the opportunity to be a very good player in hopefully a very good side going ahead... And it makes a lot of sense to target him as a free agent. His numbers compare very well against Dustin Martin for most areas this year, and he comes at a fraction of the price and with his head now well and truly pulled in.

[jazzadogs]

I'd be very happy to see us come away with Rockliff and Lever from this trade period.

[The Pie Man]

The AFL Trade Whispers twitter account (I know...) mentioned we've had 'serious discussions on the pros and cons of recruiting Tom Rockliff'

[Happy Days]

The AFL Trade Whispers twitter account (I know...) mentioned we've had 'serious discussions on the pros and cons of recruiting Tom Rockliff'

I'm sceptical most of the time about whether or not journos get their info directly from footy forums, but I would guarantee that whoever is running that account has plucked that directly from here.

[bulldogtragic]

The AFL Trade Whispers twitter account (I know...) mentioned we've had 'serious discussions on the pros and cons of recruiting Tom Rockliff'

Bevo & Jed Adcock (Brisbane assistant coach) are still tight. You'd hope Jed would tell Bevo straight up if there's any issues.

Some of that guys stuff was way off last year, but he did nail some less expected trades.

[Twodogs]

Outskirts of Kyenton to outskirts of Romsey probably seperate by only about 25km of farms. So in farm and farmers way not that much. It wouldn't surprise me with the perceived inappropriate emotional response by Redders in joking with Lever after missing a set shot, that they might know each other well enough. Just seems a really odd thing to do unless you know him well enough.

That's just BT tea leaf reading though.

You lost me when you left the Calder. Maybe close as the crow flies but I don't know anyone who's ever gone from Kyneton to Romsey so I'm pretty sure it's not possible. ;)


Who at the dogs hasn't done an ACL! :D

I just did mine walking and typing this on my iPad. Off to my surgeon tomorrow and hopefully some decent posts in 12 months.

I did mine 3 times this morning making a cup of coffee and starting my car.


If Kelly is unobtainable would we chase Hopper?

Clubs circling the other out-of-contract Giant mid (http://www.afl.com.au/news/2017-07-12/numerous-clubs-circling-out-of-contract-giant-jacob-hopper)

MOST attention surrounds Josh Kelly's future with Greater Western Sydney, but clubs continue to circle fellow young Giant Jacob Hopper as the midfielder delays a call on his own contract situation.

Hopper's original two-year contract expires with the Giants at the end of this season, and he is unlikely to make a decision on his next move until then. He hasn't played since round seven since injuring his finger and subsequently his ankle at training.

AFL.com.au understands Hopper, a graduate of the club's academy program, has a preference at this stage to remain with the Giants, but that rivals continue to eye the ball-winner who made a stunning debut last season when he gathered 32 disposals in round eight against Gold Coast.

Geelong and Collingwood have been linked to Hopper, but non-Victorian clubs Adelaide and the Brisbane Lions are also among the teams believed to be monitoring his decision.

Hopper joined the club with its first pick (No.7 overall) at the 2015 NAB AFL Draft, and was followed by Matthew Kennedy (No.13) and Harrison Himmelberg (No.16) as fellow first-round academy picks.

All three remain unsigned for next year, with contract discussions recently opening with Himmelberg for a new deal but no movement with Kennedy, who has played 11 senior games this season and averaged 18 disposals.

Hopper grew up in Leeton, which fell in the Giants' New South Wales academy region, but moved to Ballarat as a teenager to study at St Patrick's College and played with the Rebels in the TAC Cup.

The Giants' unsigned trio are among a small group of first-round picks from the 2015 draft who are yet to commit beyond this season, alongside Essendon's Darcy Parish, Richmond's Daniel Rioli and Adelaide defender Tom Doedee.

Greater Western Sydney recently locked away its first three picks from last year's draft – Will Setterfield, Tim Taranto and Harry Perryman – to two-year contract extensions which tie them to the club until the end of 2020.

How about Toby Greene? Great player not getting time in the midfield and he can kick straight (at least he does against us). Could we pry him free even if he is contracted?


Smith was very good in the finals, but he is miles off that form now.. Looks really slow and lacking mobility which is limiting his ability to apply forward pressure.

Hopefully another pre-season does him wonders because on his form in 2017 he doesn't look like he will be a regular member of our team moving forward.

He looks a mile off. Hopefully it's fitness base and not soreness from his knees.

[bulldogsthru&thru]

Bevo & Jed Adcock (Brisbane assistant coach) are still tight. You'd hope Jed would tell Bevo straight up if there's any issues.

Some of that guys stuff was way off last year, but he did nail some less expected trades.

If you throw enough of something on a wall some of it will stick.

Pretty sure that account posted last year Tom Cambpell was all but traded

[bulldogtragic]

If you throw enough of something on a wall some of it will stick.

Pretty sure that account posted last year Tom Cambpell was all but traded

It's a scientific trick. Don't believe anything on social media.

[Axe Man]

How about Toby Greene? Great player not getting time in the midfield and he can kick straight (at least he does against us). Could we pry him free even if he is contracted?

Good player but I would rather get Ivan Milat and Rolf Harris to the club before the bloke with the most punchable head in the AFL. Would surely fail the dickhead test.

[Murphy'sLore]

PLEASE not Toby Greene.

[bulldogsthru&thru]

It's a scientific trick. Don't believe anything on social media.

Fake News!

That account would have 100% read your posts regarding Rockliff. It's no coincidence.

If we got Lever and Rockliff this trade period i'd be pretty darn happy

[always right]

Would love Toby Greene. He can be rehabilitated.

[jeemak]

Good player but I would rather get Ivan Milat and Rolf Harris to the club before the bloke with the most punchable head in the AFL. Would surely fail the dickhead test.


PLEASE not Toby Greene.

I'm not sure I want a guy on the list who targets the smallest player in the league with a cheap shot to the face from behind, though many of us welcomed Barry Hall with open arms and he was a thug who committed a despicable act on the field towards Brent Staker.

I'm sure if he did find his way to the Kennel we'd learn to live with it, and maybe, just maybe, we'd learn to love him.

[bulldogtragic]

Fake News!

That account would have 100% read your posts regarding Rockliff. It's no coincidence.

If we got Lever and Rockliff this trade period i'd be pretty darn happy

If be celebrating. They're not Burgoyne & Gibson (Hawks 2009 additions), but like them they're the best midfielder at their club and second best defender both with significant scope to improve and offer immediate team impact from day one.

If anyone is tweeting my ramblings they need to get a hobby.

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

He fails almost every dickhead test yet devised.
He is a perfect for the team he currently plays for.

[Dry Rot]

Good player but I would rather get Ivan Milat and Rolf Harris to the club before the bloke with the most punchable head in the AFL. Would surely fail the dickhead test.

Ivan Milat would make a great FB in the May mould.

[bulldogtragic]

Ivan Milat would make a great FB in the May mould.

Good smack talker to get into opposition forwards heads too, 'How's it feel to miss an easy goal like that? I bet you want to find a hole out here to crawl into. Just keeping walking in front of me and I can take care of that too.'

[Twodogs]

Good player but I would rather get Ivan Milat and Rolf Harris to the club before the bloke with the most punchable head in the AFL. Would surely fail the dickhead test.


PLEASE not Toby Greene.


I'm not sure I want a guy on the list who targets the smallest player in the league with a cheap shot to the face from behind, though many of us welcomed Barry Hall with open arms and he was a thug who committed a despicable act on the field towards Brent Staker.

I'm sure if he did find his way to the Kennel we'd learn to live with it, and maybe, just maybe, we'd learn to love him.

I'd love a goalkicking midfielder like Greene. I don't mind the entire opposition hating him and targeting him. It leaves the rest of the team to play footy. JJ would enjoy having a teammate to share the bruising with.


Would love Toby Greene. He can be rehabilitated.

He certainly can. Especially at a proper team. Not a bunch of men poodles and milk sops as teammates.

[ratsmac]

Love him or hate him Toby Green is a gun. We need someone like him with a bit of mongrel.

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

Love him or hate him Toby Green is a gun. We need someone like him with a bit of mongrel.

He's not got mongrel he's just plain feral. I know its purely hypothetical as I've not heard any mention of the little shit wanting to leave, but I would be very upset if the club pursued someone of such poor character, gun or not.
Culture is also a vital ingredient.

[always right]

He's not got mongrel he's just plain feral. I know its purely hypothetical as I've not heard any mention of the little shit wanting to leave, but I would be very upset if the club pursued someone of such poor character, gun or not.
Culture is also a vital ingredient.

Did you hate Barry Hall when he came to us?

[bulldogtragic]

Did you hate Barry Hall when he came to us?

Libba's hit on Matty Knights was arguably worse than Hall's antics. Shaggy's punch to Heath Black was a good/bad one too. Danny Southern had some moments too, he said he thought he killed Sumich. Then there was that huge hit on an umpire that cost Todd Curley his career, that was a heinous, senseless act of violence.

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

Did you hate Barry Hall when he came to us?

For all his on field flaws Barry was a good character. He was remorseful and endeavoured to atone for his actions.
I've seen nothing of the sort from Greene.

[azabob]

For all his on field flaws Barry was a good character. He was remorseful and endeavoured to atone for his actions.
I've seen nothing of the sort from Greene.

He only seemed to atone later in his career and when his career was in jeopardy.

[always right]

For all his on field flaws Barry was a good character. He was remorseful and endeavoured to atone for his actions.
I've seen nothing of the sort from Greene.
It took him a long while. Greene is only in the early stages of his career and would benefit from a different environment where he is not surrounded by faux tough guys as team mates.

[bornadog]

Libba's hit on Matty Knights was arguably worse than Hall's antics.

Can't agree with this. Barry Hall turned around and punched him fair in the jaw and knocked him out. Libba was running one way and from the corner of his eye saw someone coming towards him from the side, so he lifted his elbow to protect himself, and caught knights in the forehead, which bleeds easily. Wasn't even concussed, just looked bad with all the blood.

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

He only seemed to atone later in his career and when his career was in jeopardy.

Unless I'm mistaken and haven't possession of all of Barry's off field history i don't recall him being convicted of instigating an assault of someone during the off season, I do Greene.
My information, albeit 2nd hand is that Greene is a thug who if not for football would be in a world of trouble.
I'm glad for him he has a career that should allow him to avoid a continued trajectory on that path, but i just think there are better alternatives to pursue from a risk management perspective.
We won last year with a great group of people. Not Saints to be sure, we all have our flaws, but at our core we have a fine group of people at our club.
I view that as a competitive advantage in many respects.
I'll readily accept someone into our club who despite indiscretions shows an abundance of evidence they are of good character and who would relish the opportunity to embrace our club culture.
Greene can't even admit he had intent to belt Daniel. He shows petulance, not confidence on the field.
I just don't believe he would be the right fit in the right categories.
If just on pure football ability, yes, but not on other intangibles.

Bill Walsh former coach of the successful 49ers in the NFL was unequivocal in making character a large part of list management decisions. He'd move a player on no matter tjeir5on field skull if they failed the character test.

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

He only seemed to atone later in his career and when his career was in jeopardy.

Furthermore i really got the impression even before he was linked to us that Barry did indeed truly want to atone and improve his legacy in the game and as a person.
Funnily enough i was more opposed to Aker when we signed him than I was Hall.
For mine Aker never truly tried to address the character flaws that saw him ejected from his brotherhood at the Lions.

[bornadog]

Furthermore i really got the impression even before he was linked to us that Barry did indeed truly want to atone and improve his legacy in the game and as a person.
Funnily enough i was more opposed to Aker when we signed him than I was Hall.
For mine Aker never truly tried to address the character flaws that saw him ejected from his brotherhood at the Lions.

Aker was a different character that didn't fit into the traditional footy environment, the matcho man, that didn't show their feelings. He wasn't afraid to speak his mind, and didn't worry about the political correctness.

Off field he didn't break the law, on field, he was a true athletic professional and a bloody good footballer. Too bad he just couldn't get along with his team mates, in the traditional sense.

[Nuggety Back Pocket]

Aker was a different character that didn't fit into the traditional footy environment, the matcho man, that didn't show their feelings. He wasn't afraid to speak his mind, and didn't worry about the political correctness.

Off field he didn't break the law, on field, he was a true athletic professional and a bloody good footballer. Too bad he just couldn't get along with his team mates, in the traditional sense.
Aker was a brilliant footballer in the Lions trio of Premierships. Being let loose in the media become his Achilles heel and lacked the maturity to handle it. We unfortunately was a victim of the latter.

[Dry Rot]

Caro thinks we are in the box seat with Lever

https://soundcloud.com/fiveaa/caroline-wilson-13717

[Twodogs]

Aker was a brilliant footballer in the Lions trio of Premierships. Being let loose in the media become his Achilles heel and lacked the maturity to handle it. We unfortunately was a victim of the latter.


Aker's problem wasn't so much that he spoke his mind so much as he just said the first thing that came into him mind. There's a big difference between the two.

[Axe Man]

It was mentioned on radio last week that Jarrad McVeigh is open to a Sam Mitchell like move to play for a year or 2 and transition into assistant coaching. Apparently very highly regarded for his footy brain.

If Boyd and one or both of Bob & Dale retire would we consider bringing him in for a year to provide a bit of experience down back? Also has the benefit of coming from a strong swans system and could bring some different ideas to the coaching group. Would obviously cost nothing. The only significant risk I see is his body. He has been fairly resilient over his career but has had some injury setbacks this season. If he finishes the year strongly I think it's worth considering.

[always right]

It was mentioned on radio last week that Jarrad McVeigh is open to a Sam Mitchell like move to play for a year or 2 and transition into assistant coaching. Apparently very highly regarded for his footy brain.

If Boyd and one or both of Bob & Dale retire would we consider bringing him in for a year to provide a bit of experience down back? Also has the benefit of coming from a strong swans system and could bring some different ideas to the coaching group. Would obviously cost nothing. The only significant risk I see is his body. He has been fairly resilient over his career but has had some injury setbacks this season. If he finishes the year strongly I think it's worth considering.
Not a fan of this. He's a smart player but painfully slow, and regularly has calf injuries. Perfect replacement for Boyd I guess but I don't see and upside when we have younger guys who can come in and play his role.

[bulldogtragic]

Caro thinks we are in the box seat with Lever

https://soundcloud.com/fiveaa/caroline-wilson-13717

4 minute mark. Giddy up, Bulldogs in box seat. Collingwood interview with Lever didn't go well.

Also said Adelaide Gold Level members will lose their shit if they lose him, like a straw th ath broke the camels back. The camels back being Bock, Davis, Tippett, Danger and hopefully Lever. To cause then pain, the deal itself is worth it. We can give Lever the 97 jumper number.

[Happy Days]

It was mentioned on radio last week that Jarrad McVeigh is open to a Sam Mitchell like move to play for a year or 2 and transition into assistant coaching. Apparently very highly regarded for his footy brain.

If Boyd and one or both of Bob & Dale retire would we consider bringing him in for a year to provide a bit of experience down back? Also has the benefit of coming from a strong swans system and could bring some different ideas to the coaching group. Would obviously cost nothing. The only significant risk I see is his body. He has been fairly resilient over his career but has had some injury setbacks this season. If he finishes the year strongly I think it's worth considering.

He's probably willing to make a move like Sam Mitchell because he's finished and Sydney won't re-contract him. Hard pass.

[Twodogs]

It was mentioned on radio last week that Jarrad McVeigh is open to a Sam Mitchell like move to play for a year or 2 and transition into assistant coaching. Apparently very highly regarded for his footy brain.

If Boyd and one or both of Bob & Dale retire would we consider bringing him in for a year to provide a bit of experience down back? Also has the benefit of coming from a strong swans system and could bring some different ideas to the coaching group. Would obviously cost nothing. The only significant risk I see is his body. He has been fairly resilient over his career but has had some injury setbacks this season. If he finishes the year strongly I think it's worth considering.

Not really. I'd consider someone like Luke Hodge for a job like that and Jarryd McVeigh ain't Luke Hodge. McVeigh was hobbled in last year's grand final.

[Rocco Jones]

He's probably willing to make a move like Sam Mitchell because he's finished and Sydney won't re-contract him. Hard pass.

McVeigh looks way closer to the end of his career than Bob.

Yes, Bob keeps on getting injured but when he is in the side, he offers something very rare.

[Rocco Jones]

It's funny, grass is greener etc. We have a gun HB who is an amazing leader but we wanna retire him.

[Doc26]

It's funny, grass is greener etc. We have a gun HB who is an amazing leader but we wanna retire him.

Do you mean Bob or Boydy?:p

[bornadog]

Aker's problem wasn't so much that he spoke his mind so much as he just said the first thing that came into him mind. There's a big difference between the two.

We could do with his brilliance right now. Who can we target to do this, but also a nice bloke.:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lZN8hSLLvf4

[1eyedog]

We could do with his brilliance right now. Who can we target to do this, but also a nice bloke.:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lZN8hSLLvf4

Josh Kelly

[Remi Moses]

4 minute mark. Giddy up, Bulldogs in box seat. Collingwood interview with Lever didn't go well.

Also said Adelaide Gold Level members will lose their shit if they lose him, like a straw th ath broke the camels back. The camels back being Bock, Davis, Tippett, Danger and hopefully Lever. To cause then pain, the deal itself is worth it. We can give Lever the 97 jumper number.
It sounds promising , but not getting carried away . The Hurley precedent got me a little cautious

[bulldogtragic]

It sounds promising , but not getting carried away . The Hurley precedent got me a little cautious

At least we are in the running. That's a good start.

[Twodogs]

We could do with his brilliance right now. Who can we target to do this, but also a nice bloke.:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lZN8hSLLvf4

I'm not that worried about whether he's a good bloke. I just want to watch him play football not be my best mate.

[bornadog]

I'm not that worried about whether he's a good bloke. I just want to watch him play football not be my best mate.

Watching that vid, god he was good. What I meant was someone that didn't disrupt the club. Would be great if some how we got Josh Kelly, who is also besties with The Bont.

[Twodogs]

Watching that vid, god he was good. What I meant was someone that didn't disrupt the club. Would be great if some how we got Josh Kelly, who is also besties with The Bont.

Yeah true. It's important that everyone is at least working in the same direction.

I think we've seen perfect examples of both sides of the coin in the last 18 months.

[Happy Days]

We could do with his brilliance right now. Who can we target to do this, but also a nice bloke.:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lZN8hSLLvf4

If they can make you a 15 minute highlight video then you could probably seriously play.

[jeemak]

Aker was an outstanding footballer, but a narcissist and attention seeker who from an early age played that role whilst being an elite runner and footballer, but never matured.

Just read his first book to find out what I'm talking about, if you don't want to take my word for it.

Jesus he could play though.

[Twodogs]

It's funny what a kid can pick up. Me and my (at the time) 7 year old were watching a Brisbane game on TV in 2005 or 6 or whenever Aker fell out with Brisbane when he says "dad why won't they give it to Aker? He keeps getting by himself but the others won't give it to him." Then a couple of days later Aker walks out.

[bulldogsthru&thru]

Barrett has Melbourne leading the race for Lever. Sounds like his dad gets around a fair bit as he is apparently "well known" down at the demons

[Twodogs]

Barrett has Melbourne leading the race for Lever. Sounds like his dad gets around a fair bit as he is apparently "well known" down at the demons


Maybe he uses body doubles like Saddam Hussein and Charlie Chaplin?

[soupman]

I admit to having never actually seen him play but looking at potentially undervalued players would Matt Scharenberg be of interest to us?

Half back flanker, nice kick and size (191cm), top 10 pick, has barely played for Collingwood and has been dropped this week after a season of not being selected despite good VFL performances and a 21 possession game last week. He must be frustrated and while the logical move is for him to return to a SA club, we could potentially steal him for not very much.

As an example of his worth, Nathan Freeman from the same draft (pick 10) went to St.Kilda two seasons ago for a second round pick. Could possibly have similar value to Webb should he leave.

[GVGjr]

Not sure soupaman, Freeman would probably be a no because he just can't get on the park, Scharenberg might have some appeal but I think the Pies will stick with him.

[ledge]

I admit to having never actually seen him play but looking at potentially undervalued players would Matt Scharenberg be of interest to us?

Half back flanker, nice kick and size (191cm), top 10 pick, has barely played for Collingwood and has been dropped this week after a season of not being selected despite good VFL performances and a 21 possession game last week. He must be frustrated and while the logical move is for him to return to a SA club, we could potentially steal him for not very much.

As an example of his worth, Nathan Freeman from the same draft (pick 10) went to St.Kilda two seasons ago for a second round pick. Could possibly have similar value to Webb should he leave.

I believe he was passed by other teams because of ankle or leg problems, Collingwood took the punt and he has suffered injuries all
Through his short career
Too much a gamble but if he was to get over his injuries he is definitley a very good player.

[Twodogs]

I admit to having never actually seen him play but looking at potentially undervalued players would Matt Scharenberg be of interest to us?

Half back flanker, nice kick and size (191cm), top 10 pick, has barely played for Collingwood and has been dropped this week after a season of not being selected despite good VFL performances and a 21 possession game last week. He must be frustrated and while the logical move is for him to return to a SA club, we could potentially steal him for not very much.

As an example of his worth, Nathan Freeman from the same draft (pick 10) went to St.Kilda two seasons ago for a second round pick. Could possibly have similar value to Webb should he leave.


Maybe not Scharenberg specifically but his type, tall and a good kick is exactly the type of player we should be considering for our midfield. I'd really like a goalkicking mid. I'd really like a goalkicking anything ATM.

[soupman]

Not sure soupaman, Freeman would probably be a no because he just can't get on the park, Scharenberg might have some appeal but I think the Pies will stick with him.

Freeman is merely an example of possible cost to acquire Scharenberg. Freeman has possibly been uninjured for maybe 2 months of his 4 year playing career thus far so I have no interest in him.

/

[always right]

Yeah I'd be happy to pick him up but probably for a third round pick only.

[Remi Moses]

Whisper that Brisbane aren't as confident of keeping Rockliff as they were a few weeks ago . Wonder if he's on our radar

[bulldogtragic]

Whisper that Brisbane aren't as confident of keeping Rockliff as they were a few weeks ago . Wonder if he's on our radar

I hope so. It's a win-win. Let him chase a flag (costing the new club only salary) and let them get great compo for this rebuild, which looks to be working.

[GVGjr]

We need some depth at the ruck position, would Tippett be worth having a chat to providing the Swans paid some of his contract?

[The Bulldogs Bite]

We need some depth at the ruck position, would Tippett be worth having a chat to providing the Swans paid some of his contract?

On first thoughts, not really. His ruck work is average and his forward work is average.

On second thoughts, it would give us some flexibility with Roughead and T. Boyd all capable of playing multiple positions.

On third thoughts, he'd still cost too much in terms of $$.

[GVGjr]

On first thoughts, not really. His ruck work is average and his forward work is average.

On second thoughts, it would give us some flexibility with Roughead and T. Boyd all capable of playing multiple positions.

On third thoughts, he'd still cost too much in terms of $$.

While I can't see it happening apparently we don't rate the ruck position that highly so Tippett would just need to be competitive
He would give us some flexibility and I think the Swans would consider paying a chunk of his contract.
The real downside is that he is already 30 and his form is wavering but he could be a decent short term option until English is better prepared to handle the ruck duties.

Gary Buckenara suggested that we should again have a look at Lobbe and even suggested Pittard might provide us some run.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

While I can't see it happening apparently we don't rate the ruck position that highly so Tippett would just need to be competitive
He would give us some flexibility and I think the Swans would consider paying a chunk of his contract.
The real downside is that he is already 30 and his form is wavering but he could be a decent short term option until English is better prepared to handle the ruck duties.

Gary Buckenara suggested that we should again have a look at Lobbe and even suggested Pittard might provide us some run.

There's merit in the type of player, but Tippet hasn't fired a shot for a long while and as you mentioned, he's already 30 y.o. Add that to the fact that he still won't come cheap and it's hard to see anyone touching him.

Lobbe? Where would that leave Roughead?

I prefer Williams to Pittard. The latter is very shaky under any sort of pressure.

[Twodogs]

While I can't see it happening apparently we don't rate the ruck position that highly so Tippett would just need to be competitive
He would give us some flexibility and I think the Swans would consider paying a chunk of his contract.
The real downside is that he is already 30 and his form is wavering but he could be a decent short term option until English is better prepared to handle the ruck duties.

Gary Buckenara suggested that we should again have a look at Lobbe and even suggested Pittard might provide us some run.


According to the Sunday Footy Show Tippet's form is barely good enough for NEAFL level. That's why Sinclair played (and probably went past Tippet on the pecking order) against st Kilda on the weekend.

[Webby]

According to the Sunday Footy Show Tippet's form is barely good enough for NEAFL level. That's why Sinclair played (and probably went past Tippet on the pecking order) against st Kilda on the weekend.

Strange. My mail is he kicked five in the NEAFL on the weekend.
(Not defending him... I've never rated Tippett - just pointing out what I've heard re the weekend.)

[Twodogs]

Strange. My mail is he kicked five in the NEAFL on the weekend.
(Not defending him... I've never rated Tippett - just pointing out what I've heard re the weekend.)


May have been talking about his form leading up to the weekend and why Sydney went with Sinclair instead of Tippet for Saturday's game?

[Webby]

May have been talking about his form leading up to the weekend and why Sydney went with Sinclair instead of Tippet for Saturday's game?

Ah yes. Makes sense. I'm with you now.

[bornadog]

Big No to Tippett. He has stacked on the kilo's and now lumbers around. I remember seeing him play in the Prelim a few years ago against the Hawks when he was with Adelaide. He was unstoppable in the air, taking mark after mark and getting the ball into Walker. Almost won that game on his own performance. ( I just looked up that game, Prelim 2012, he kicked 4 goals, and took 11 marks)

He has been struck down with injury, and his form has been very poor for a number of years now.

As for Lobbe, no thank you as well, I would rather have Tom Campbell that Lobbe.

[1eyedog]

Strange. My mail is he kicked five in the NEAFL on the weekend.
(Not defending him... I've never rated Tippett - just pointing out what I've heard re the weekend.)

Sinclair played the game of his life against the Saints. Has Port's Trengrove re-signed?

[Bulldog4life]

We need some depth at the ruck position, would Tippett be worth having a chat to providing the Swans paid some of his contract?

Do we really need more than 4. Tom Campbell improved before he was injured. Then you have Roughy and Tom Boyd. Plus Tim English who is coming along nicely in the VFL. I think we need a couple of genuine speedy players mids/forwards.

[LostDoggy]

Strange. My mail is he kicked five in the NEAFL on the weekend.
(Not defending him... I've never rated Tippett - just pointing out what I've heard re the weekend.)

Tippett kicked 5 in a 155 point win against a rabble. The lower NEAFL teams are of a very poor standard. I would take his 5 goals with a massive grain of salt.

[SlimPickens]

Do we really need more than 4. Tom Campbell improved before he was injured. Then you have Roughy and Tom Boyd. Plus Tim English who is coming along nicely in the VFL. I think we need a couple of genuine speedy players mids/forwards.

I agree with this, we have been found out slightly this year with health issues but we are still playing English in the twos so i don't see it as a big issue. If the question was "do we need to target a number one ruckmen?" then i think there is some merit.

[Twodogs]

I agree with this, we have been found out slightly this year with health issues but we are still playing English in the twos so i don't see it as a big issue. If the question was "do we need to target a number one ruckmen?" then i think there is some merit.

Yep, that's the correct question. Quality v quantity. Kind of.

We don't appear to rate the ruck position but does the coach not rate all ruckman or would he actually use a quality ruckman? (in the ruck and not as a permanent small forward)

[Twodogs]

I agree with this, we have been found out slightly this year with health issues but we are still playing English in the twos so i don't see it as a big issue. If the question was "do we need to target a number one ruckmen?" then i think there is some merit.

Yep, that's the correct question. Quality v quantity. Kind of. We already have enough ruckmen but they all have short comings at the moment be it too young or injured or whatever.

But the coaches don't appear to rate the ruck position but does the coach not rate all ruckman or would he actually use a quality ruckman? (in the ruck and not as a permanent small forward)

[GVGjr]

Do we really need more than 4. Tom Campbell improved before he was injured. Then you have Roughy and Tom Boyd. Plus Tim English who is coming along nicely in the VFL. I think we need a couple of genuine speedy players mids/forwards.

Boyds not a full time ruckman and is needed up forward. History would say Roughead and especially Campbell are prone to injuries and given English probably needs another season to build up strength and endurance a short term option could be worth considering.

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

I know he's woefully out of form now, but could Goldstein be worth considering?

[azabob]

I know he's woefully out of form now, but could Goldstein be worth considering?

Probably not. He is on a lot of money and apparently has a lot of off field issues.

[bulldogtragic]

I know he's woefully out of form now, but could Goldstein be worth considering?


Probably not. He is on a lot of money and apparently has a lot of off field issues.

Yeah, his salary was fix around him being the best ruck. Makes me skittish. If we are after a mature ruckman, if, then Kruezer has shown he can stay fit since we allegedly did a medical on him in 2015 when he first became a free agent. I could see Bevo liking him as a versatile ruckman. If I were BTC I'd be asking for a trade out, so a free agency in of Kruezer could work out as a big net gain on the list.

[Remi Moses]

I reckon Goldy's suffering from being the only ruck
Looks beat up for mine ,and on big coin .
Interesting Stevo tweeting that vic clubs think Lever is getable

[jeemak]

Lever's as on the table as JJ was. Or Hurley was, or as Aker was......... :)

[jazzadogs]

How could we convince a #1 ruckman to come to us when the sell is "we already have a Roughead/Boyd combo as our preferred option"?

We're going to have enough issues convincing Campbell to stay (if we even want to convince him, which I hope we do as his depth is important), and in fact I don't think we should be trading anyone in unless Campbell does ask for a trade. Even then it should be a second-stringer that has room for improvement and does not cost much, similar to how other clubs would view Campbell.

[ledge]

How could we convince a #1 ruckman to come to us when the sell is "we already have a Roughead/Boyd combo as our preferred option"?

We're going to have enough issues convincing Campbell to stay (if we even want to convince him, which I hope we do as his depth is important), and in fact I don't think we should be trading anyone in unless Campbell does ask for a trade. Even then it should be a second-stringer that has room for improvement and does not cost much, similar to how other clubs would view Campbell.

English will be a star Mark my words.
If the rumours are true about Goldstein off field I can't see him being at North next year.
They should be playing Pruess anyway in my eyes.

[Axe Man]

Yeah, his salary was fix around him being the best ruck. Makes me skittish. If we are after a mature ruckman, if, then Kruezer has shown he can stay fit since we allegedly did a medical on him in 2015 when he first became a free agent. I could see Bevo liking him as a versatile ruckman. If I were BTC I'd be asking for a trade out, so a free agency in of Kruezer could work out as a big net gain on the list.

Kreuzer is having an excellent season but is unlikely to be going anywhere:


The 28-year-old ruckman is enjoying one of the best seasons of his career. Attracted rival interest, particularly from Collingwood, when he was last a free agent in 2015, but is reportedly close to activating a games-based trigger clause in his existing contract that will bind him to the Blues in 2018.

[Sedat]

Yeah, his salary was fix around him being the best ruck. Makes me skittish. If we are after a mature ruckman, if, then Kruezer has shown he can stay fit since we allegedly did a medical on him in 2015 when he first became a free agent. I could see Bevo liking him as a versatile ruckman. If I were BTC I'd be asking for a trade out, so a free agency in of Kruezer could work out as a big net gain on the list.
I was massively bullish on Kreuzer when he was last out of contract - at the time his value was at its lowest due to injury/form and he would have been a free agent on that $500k a season level. He is basically a better and more talented version of Huddo - that contested animal beast ruckman type who fights and scraps like an inside mid after the hitout. And he can genuinely pinch hit up forward and take a clunk.

Still a big fan but his age now makes him a less attractive proposition. Would still investigate at the end of the season.

[S Coast Simon]

Thoughts on Ailir Ailir. Very talented player seemingly on the outer

[Axe Man]

Thoughts on Ailir Ailir. Very talented player seemingly on the outer

Contracted until the end of 2018 but worth a look if we don't get Lever.

[Dry Rot]

Re rucks, I wouldn't touch Tippett with a barge pole.

Could we find a capable ruck in one of the state leagues? IIRC there is a mature ruck called Baulderstone from SA in the draft

Sam Baulderstone (Norwood)
Maybe the 26-year-old has missed the boat, but we've seen AFL clubs take a punt on older ruckmen in the past. Baulderstone has been the standout big man in the SANFL for the past couple of years. His tap work is excellent and he gets around the ground well.

http://www.afl.com.au/news/2017-07-12/worth-a-look-sanfl-players-pushing-their-draft-case

[bulldogtragic]

Kreuzer is having an excellent season but is unlikely to be going anywhere:

Yeah I read that. It might be like the Dal Santo FA situation where depending on the offer Carlton &/or MK may not activate the extension for the compo. If they got a second rounder (about pick 20) and MK wanted to go, then he can still move as a FA on the Dal Santo precedent. But he may want to stay in any event.

[hujsh]

Re rucks, I wouldn't touch Tippett with a barge pole.

Could we find a capable ruck in one of the state leagues? IIRC there is a mature ruck called Baulderstone from SA in the draft

Sam Baulderstone (Norwood)
Maybe the 26-year-old has missed the boat, but we've seen AFL clubs take a punt on older ruckmen in the past. Baulderstone has been the standout big man in the SANFL for the past couple of years. His tap work is excellent and he gets around the ground well.

http://www.afl.com.au/news/2017-07-12/worth-a-look-sanfl-players-pushing-their-draft-case

Sounds like an ideal option. Mature, fits what we want from a ruck, no expectation of a starting 22 spot.

[GVGjr]

How could we convince a #1 ruckman to come to us when the sell is "we already have a Roughead/Boyd combo as our preferred option"?

We're going to have enough issues convincing Campbell to stay (if we even want to convince him, which I hope we do as his depth is important), and in fact I don't think we should be trading anyone in unless Campbell does ask for a trade. Even then it should be a second-stringer that has room for improvement and does not cost much, similar to how other clubs would view Campbell.

I think Goldstein has to be the number one ruckman for whatever club he plays for so I agree it's going to be hard to squeeze him in

Just on Campbell, what other clubs would be interested in him? Maybe North if Goldy departs but he would be pitted against Preuss and he might be the 2nd fiddle again. Fremantle might be interested of Sandilands is to retire

I'm not sure there are too many potential homes for him and he would be better sticking with us

[GVGjr]

English will be a star Mark my words.
If the rumours are true about Goldstein off field I can't see him being at North next year.
They should be playing Pruess anyway in my eyes.

English needs time to develop. At least another season at Footscray before he should be ready for an extended run in the seniors as a ruckman

[Twodogs]

Thoughts on Ailir Ailir. Very talented player seemingly on the outer

I like him a lot. If Lever falls through he would be ideal


English needs time to develop. At least another season at Footscray before he should be ready for an extended run in the seniors as a ruckman

Could he play in a key position or a pocket (we are going retro) in the seniors while he develops?

[GVGjr]

Could he play in a key position or a pocket (we are going retro) in the seniors while he develops?

He just needs time but I don't think he's going to be ready for a lot of senior football for another season. Happy to be proven wrong though.

[GVGjr]

Thoughts on Ailir Ailir. Very talented player seemingly on the outer

He'd be hard to pry away from the Swans but I'd hope the club at least asks the question.

[Twodogs]

He just needs time but I don't think he's going to be ready for a lot of senior football for another season. Happy to be proven wrong though.

Let's hope so. This time anyway. You do have an infuriating habit of being right about these things though.


He'd be hard to pry away from the Swans but I'd hope the club at least asks the question.

I reckon now would be the perfect time. The player has been dropped for disciplinary reasons and now can't get back in the team. The motivation from him to move might be good at the moment.

[bornadog]

He just needs time but I don't think he's going to be ready for a lot of senior football for another season. Happy to be proven wrong though.

I would think it will take more than one season. Is body still has a lot of adjusting to do for the rigours of AFL football.

[S Coast Simon]

I would happily take. Goldy. Scott Thompson Adelaide. Ailir Ailir and Lever. That will do us fine for a year or two while our boys beef up a bit. Thompson in the middle protecting Bont

[jeemak]

What are the Goldstein off field rumours?

[Bullies]

I would happily take. Goldy. Scott Thompson Adelaide. Ailir Ailir and Lever. That will do us fine for a year or two while our boys beef up a bit. Thompson in the middle protecting BontThompson seriously. Have you seen him run lately. He could not get near protecting anyone. Another one who played on too long and topped up their super.

[Topdog]

He'd be hard to pry away from the Swans but I'd hope the club at least asks the question.

I'm wondering about this now. Only played 3 games this year.

[Happy Days]

What are the Goldstein off field rumours?

I'm trying to come up with an analogous scandal to soft peddle it, but can't, so lets just say he's "having sex with" a "trainer at North".

There's a chance he might end up at GWS if Kelly goes to North apparently.

[Topdog]

Can't see GWS having a need for him.

[Happy Days]

Can't see GWS having a need for him.

Not so sure about that. Mumford has been thoroughly average this year and they seem to want Lobb as the tallest third tall forward of all time.

[Axe Man]

Talk that West Coast could be having a big list clean out at the end of the season. Any interest here? Mackenzie could be worth a look, don't know much about McInnes but could provide ruck depth?

Dozen look good: Eagles could make 12 list changes at season’s end
(https://thewest.com.au/sport/afl/dozen-look-good-eagles-could-make-12-list-changes-at-seasons-end-ng-b88549528z)
GONE
Sam Mitchell, age 34: Almost certain to retire and join the club’s coaching panel.
Drew Petrie, 34: Has been valuable because of injuries to Nic Naitanui and Scott Lycett but this will be his last season. Has worked on West Coast’s AFLW bid but could return to Melbourne.
Jonathan Giles, 29: Journeyman ruckman turns 30 in January and has a significant knee issue.
Paddy Brophy, 23: Called time on his AFL adventure earlier this year to head home to Ireland.

IN SERIOUS DOUBT
Matt Priddis, 32: Has a contract for 2018 but playing on may also mean spending significant time in the WAFL. May opt to retire.
Mark LeCras, 30: Turns 31 at the end of next month and has battled hip and back problems for much of this year.
Simon Tunbridge, 24: Back playing reserves for East Perth after LARS surgery but career has been marred by ankle, knee and shoulder issues. His chance may have passed him by.
Sam Butler, 31: Sole survivor of the 2006 premiership team. Has had a couple of soft tissue injuries again this year. Time may be up.

PLAYING FOR THEIR CAREERS
Sharrod Wellingham, 29: Doesn’t have a contract and has been in the WAFL in recent weeks. Has talent but fast running out of time to show it.
Eric Mackenzie, 29: Has struggled since his 2015 knee reconstruction and finds himself on the fringes now. Touch and go.
Josh Hill, 28: If LeCras goes he may be kept but has been in and out of the team, with limited impact when in.
Fraser McInnes, 24: Club’s call on him is likely to depend on how it views its ruck stocks. Has battled for AFL games but may be kept on for depth.

[Topdog]

Not so sure about that. Mumford has been thoroughly average this year and they seem to want Lobb as the tallest third tall forward of all time.

He has been better than Goldy

[bornadog]

Talk that West Coast could be having a big list clean out at the end of the season. Any interest here? Mackenzie could be work a look, don't know much about McInnes but could provide ruck depth?

Dozen look good: Eagles could make 12 list changes at season’s end
(https://thewest.com.au/sport/afl/dozen-look-good-eagles-could-make-12-list-changes-at-seasons-end-ng-b88549528z)
GONE
Sam Mitchell, age 34: Almost certain to retire and join the club’s coaching panel.
Drew Petrie, 34: Has been valuable because of injuries to Nic Naitanui and Scott Lycett but this will be his last season. Has worked on West Coast’s AFLW bid but could return to Melbourne.
Jonathan Giles, 29: Journeyman ruckman turns 30 in January and has a significant knee issue.
Paddy Brophy, 23: Called time on his AFL adventure earlier this year to head home to Ireland.

IN SERIOUS DOUBT
Matt Priddis, 32: Has a contract for 2018 but playing on may also mean spending significant time in the WAFL. May opt to retire.
Mark LeCras, 30: Turns 31 at the end of next month and has battled hip and back problems for much of this year.
Simon Tunbridge, 24: Back playing reserves for East Perth after LARS surgery but career has been marred by ankle, knee and shoulder issues. His chance may have passed him by.
Sam Butler, 31: Sole survivor of the 2006 premiership team. Has had a couple of soft tissue injuries again this year. Time may be up.

PLAYING FOR THEIR CAREERS
Sharrod Wellingham, 29: Doesn’t have a contract and has been in the WAFL in recent weeks. Has talent but fast running out of time to show it.
Eric Mackenzie, 29: Has struggled since his 2015 knee reconstruction and finds himself on the fringes now. Touch and go.
Josh Hill, 28: If LeCras goes he may be kept but has been in and out of the team, with limited impact when in.
Fraser McInnes, 24: Club’s call on him is likely to depend on how it views its ruck stocks. Has battled for AFL games but may be kept on for depth.

Eagles in big trouble due to List mis-management. Have only debuted a couple of kids in pass couple of years, lot's of older players way passed it

Personally, no interest in the above.

[Twodogs]

Talk that West Coast could be having a big list clean out at the end of the season. Any interest here? Mackenzie could be worth a look, don't know much about McInnes but could provide ruck depth?

Dozen look good: Eagles could make 12 list changes at season’s end
(https://thewest.com.au/sport/afl/dozen-look-good-eagles-could-make-12-list-changes-at-seasons-end-ng-b88549528z)
GONE
Sam Mitchell, age 34: Almost certain to retire and join the club’s coaching panel.
Drew Petrie, 34: Has been valuable because of injuries to Nic Naitanui and Scott Lycett but this will be his last season. Has worked on West Coast’s AFLW bid but could return to Melbourne.
Jonathan Giles, 29: Journeyman ruckman turns 30 in January and has a significant knee issue.
Paddy Brophy, 23: Called time on his AFL adventure earlier this year to head home to Ireland.

IN SERIOUS DOUBT
Matt Priddis, 32: Has a contract for 2018 but playing on may also mean spending significant time in the WAFL. May opt to retire.
Mark LeCras, 30: Turns 31 at the end of next month and has battled hip and back problems for much of this year.
Simon Tunbridge, 24: Back playing reserves for East Perth after LARS surgery but career has been marred by ankle, knee and shoulder issues. His chance may have passed him by.
Sam Butler, 31: Sole survivor of the 2006 premiership team. Has had a couple of soft tissue injuries again this year. Time may be up.

PLAYING FOR THEIR CAREERS
Sharrod Wellingham, 29: Doesn’t have a contract and has been in the WAFL in recent weeks. Has talent but fast running out of time to show it.
Eric Mackenzie, 29: Has struggled since his 2015 knee reconstruction and finds himself on the fringes now. Touch and go.
Josh Hill, 28: If LeCras goes he may be kept but has been in and out of the team, with limited impact when in.
Fraser McInnes, 24: Club’s call on him is likely to depend on how it views its ruck stocks. Has battled for AFL games but may be kept on for depth.


No interest in any of those guys except maybe Tunbridge but I'm an awful hoarder so I'm the last person to ask about list management decisions, I'd still have Les Bamblett on the list. Having said that even I'd manage to make a call on that list of players without too much anxiety.

[Mofra]

Left-field consideration - Kieran Jack.
Would come cheap, is experienced and may be on the outer if the Swans are getting a warchest together for a Martin bid (if rumours are true, Reid and Tippett are out too).

He's not huge but is a tough little bugger.

[kruder]

Sounds like Tim Watson was saying Tippett to the dogs is a rumour, obviously take with a grain of salt we are linked with every tall available as usual.

[bulldogtragic]

Sounds like Tim Watson was saying Tippett to the dogs is a rumour, obviously take with a grain of salt we are linked with every tall available as usual.

Oh no... Well, maybe if it was a Jade Rawlings trade (to North). That is, like we did with JR, they pay a humongous amount of his salary and they actually trade the dogs up the order (Our 38 into their circa 31) just to clear him out. Even then, Rawlings didn't fire a shot at North, but they did get Swallow with the upgraded pick we gave them with Rawlings.

Otherwise god no. Tom Williams looks like a picture of fitness and physical reliability compared to Tippett. Not to mention Tom Williams & Tippett have had similar impacts of AFL Grand Finals.

[AndrewP6]

I would happily take. Goldy. Scott Thompson Adelaide. Ailir Ailir and Lever. That will do us fine for a year or two while our boys beef up a bit. Thompson in the middle protecting Bont

Announced his retirement earlier in the week.

[Twodogs]

Left-field consideration - Kieran Jack.
Would come cheap, is experienced and may be on the outer if the Swans are getting a warchest together for a Martin bid (if rumours are true, Reid and Tippett are out too).

He's not huge but is a tough little bugger.

Why would any club (park clubs included) take Tippet? Is he contracted past this season?

[jeemak]

At the right price any sensible club would go for Tippett. The problem is the price, not the player.

[Twodogs]

At the right price any sensible club would go for Tippett. The problem is the price, not the player.

I guess he's been available for selection but his form hasn't justified it.

[Axe Man]

Why would any club (park clubs included) take Tippet? Is he contracted past this season?

He's contracted until the end of 2020 so it's going to be very difficult for Sydney to move him on.

[bulldogtragic]

He's contracted until the end of 2020 so it's going to be very difficult for Sydney to move him on.

I hope 17 clubs refuse a trade on him. They've made their bed, through shit conduct to get him there for nothing, they can lie in it as far as I'm concerned. Including losing players to salary cap issues, taking up a spot and being unable to bring in good players because there's no money. This is my preference on Sydney & Tippett.

[G-Mo77]

No interest in any of those guys except maybe Tunbridge but I'm an awful hoarder so I'm the last person to ask about list management decisions, I'd still have Les Bamblett on the list. Having said that even I'd manage to make a call on that list of players without too much anxiety.

Josh Hill?

[macca]

Aaron Young kicked an excellent goal today in last min of Port vs Saints. I wonder what has been keeping him out of the side ? As there are a few players vying for that forward spot , can he play in midfield ?

[ledge]

Why would any club (park clubs included) take Tippet? Is he contracted past this season?

Hawks would , they took Vickery.
Carlton might , they took Jones and resigned him !

[GVGjr]

Aaron Young kicked an excellent goal today in last min of Port vs Saints. I wonder what has been keeping him out of the side ? As there are a few players vying for that forward spot , can he play in midfield ?

I don't think he is a midfielder but like a lot of players he probably needs to be able to play there for a few minutes here and there

[GVGjr]

Woofer is there a corporate area at the moment,?

[Happy Days]

I don't think he is a midfielder but like a lot of players he probably needs to be able to play there for a few minutes here and there

He's Josh Jenkins but 180cms tall. Hard pass.

[GVGjr]

He's Josh Jenkins but 180cms tall. Hard pass.

Good call

[Remi Moses]

Just Adelaide have offered Mitch McGovern 2 years 350 per year.
Seriously low balled .Salary cap must be tight

[bulldogtragic]

Just Adelaide have offered Mitch McGovern 2 years 350 per year.
Seriously low balled .Salary cap must be tight

I wonder what the Lever offer is then??

[azabob]

Just Adelaide have offered Mitch McGovern 2 years 350 per year.
Seriously low balled .Salary cap must be tight

Does that mean he is then eligible for free agency?

[Remi Moses]

I wonder what the Lever offer is then??

Apparently Freo have offered over 700 ! Interesting question on Lever, you'd imagine it would have to be more than that .
Salary cap must be very tight , as you'd think McGovern should be earning more coin than that

[ledge]

Do we need to chase anyone ? We have Adams and Collins coming through, plenty of mids and Redpath, English.
Could we just go for draft picks ?

[bulldogtragic]

Do we need to chase anyone ? We have Adams and Collins coming through, plenty of mids and Redpath, English.
Could we just go for draft picks ?

I'm a firm no. Josh Kelly in particular, or Lever make us much better. I'm over drafting kids like Hrovat (maybe Webb too) with good picks and getting SFA in return. As for Lever, we can play with Adams or Young forward (as they were as juniors) and not go chasing tall forwards for many years and stop journos reporting the annual Sam Reid or John Butcher stories. Guaranteed top end talent coming in is just fine by me.

[ledge]

I'm a firm no. Josh Kelly in particular, or Lever make us much better. I'm over drafting kids like Hrovat (maybe Webb too) with good picks and getting SFA in return. As for Lever, we can play with Adams or Young forward (as they were as juniors) and not go chasing tall forwards for many years and stop journos reporting the annual Sam Reid or John Butcher stories. Guaranteed top end talent coming in is just fine by me.

But this comes with a cost of salary cap , let's face it we are already premiers cant be too
Much we need, Cordy is coming along great as well .. We will be one of the youngest sides going around next year again with maybe Murphy and Boyd retiring, the kids are only going to get better.
I'm not a fan of recruiting from other teams just because the media thinks it's a must with all star players out of contract. It's kind of like expected but it's not a rule.
I do agree Lever is a gun a Romsey boy and would love to come home and to us but is it a must have at the price we pay?

[bulldogtragic]

But this comes with a cost of salary cap , let's face it we are already premiers cant be too
Much we need, Cordy is coming along great as well .. We will be one of the youngest sides going around next year again with maybe Murphy and Boyd retiring, the kids are only going to get better.
I'm not a fan of recruiting from other teams just because the media thinks it's a must with all star players out of contract. It's kind of like expected but it's not a rule.
I do agree Lever is a gun a Romsey boy and would love to come home and to us but is it a must have at the price we pay?

To quote D. Trump, it's all about the deal (years and dollars). We still have salary cap room according to Dalrymple, so if we can use that cap and a first rounder to see if we can immediately improve the list then I'm all for it. The media have no role in forming what we need to do.

[azabob]

I'd have him target and sign up Bailey Dale and Lukas Webb...

[bulldogtragic]

I'd have him target and sign up Bailey Dale and Lukas Webb...

Amen brother Aza. Amen.

[bornadog]

Not confirmed but highly likely:

Swans will re-sign both Sam Reid and Zak Jones to long-term deals, possibly 4 years each. Have thwarted significant interest in Victoria

[bulldogtragic]

Not confirmed but highly likely:

Swans will re-sign both Sam Reid and Zak Jones to long-term deals, possibly 4 years each. Have thwarted significant interest in Victoria

Surely they're off loading Tippett then? They're both going to get good money.

[bornadog]

Surely they're off loading Tippett then? They're both going to get good money.

An interesting one BT. I wonder how they are balancing the books. I don't think Sam is worth big dollars, and Zak is probably around the $500 to $600k.

[bulldogtragic]

An interesting one BT. I wonder how they are balancing the books. I don't think Sam is worth big dollars, and Zak is probably around the $500 to $600k.

From memory Reid was on $600,000 and the media were reporting Victorian clubs were offering $650,000+. If they're combined on $1.2m and nearly $1m for Buddy & Tippett, then that's $3m for those 4 players. Then Parker, Kennedy, Jack, Heeney, Mills, Hannerbury etc.

Maybe they're going to have to give up some talented fringe players, or Tippett.

[bornadog]

From memory Reid was on $600,000 and the media were reporting Victorian clubs were offering $650,000+. If they're combined on $1.2m and nearly $1m for Buddy & Tippett, then that's $3m for those 4 players. Then Parker, Kennedy, Jack, Heeney, Mills, Hannerbury etc.

Maybe they're going to have to give up some talented fringe players, or Tippett.

Who else could we target from the Swans that may fit into our team?

[bulldogtragic]

Who else could we target from the Swans that may fit into our team?

Talia.... No.

They don't seem to have a lot of good mid range players. They have the experienced guys and kids who don't cost much yet. That leaves Allir Allir or Sinclair. I'm not fond of a Tippett trade unless it's rediculously in our favour.

[always right]

I quite like Papley. We need a smart nippy small forward who kicks goals.

[Bullies]

Who else could we target from the Swans that may fit into our team? I believe Franklin starts getting paid the big dollars next year $1.5m

[bulldogtragic]

I believe Franklin starts getting paid the big dollars next year $1.5m

Even better!

[westbulldog]

If we want to recruit from the Swans I would go for Alir Alir, not Tippett although he could be useful if he came cheap and could stay on the park.

[Happy Days]

Hypothetically speaking;

Say Lever stays, and we are still allegedly flush for cap space; do we just take on Tippet's whole salary?

In the NFL this past season, the Browns took on an atrocious contract from the Texans, and in the process also obtained a second round pick from them. I think we could look at a similar type deal, taking on Tippet's whole salary and a 2nd pick for a pick in the 160's. He's only contracted for next season anyway, and it would give Dalrymple another swing at a guy in the 20's, which seems to be his passion in life. Plus who knows, he might be not horrible? The guy that the Browns got in their trade is slated to start at Quarterback for them on opening day.

Sydney are rumoured to be chasing every big fish every single year, so they will probably need the cap space Kurt is currently chewing up. I think it makes for a pretty pragmatic move.

[GVGjr]

I'm not sure we can do that Happy Days, I don't think I've ever seen a deal that gives a player and an early draft pick for a late draft pick even if it does provide considerable salary cap relief for one team. Still the AFL are determined to follow US sports with trades etc

I suspect Tippet and his contract might be considered for a late pick

[Happy Days]

I'm not sure we can do that Happy Days, I don't think I've ever seen a deal that gives a player and an early draft pick for a late draft pick even if it does provide considerable salary cap relief for one team. Still the AFL are determined to follow US sports with trades etc

I suspect Tippet and his contract might be considered for a late pick

Without making specific reference to the CBA I can't see why we wouldn't be allowed to. The peppercorn consideration principle suggests that it's not really up to outside parties to the agreement to say that a deal is unfair, just that something is being provided in exchange for something else. It's also clearly not draft tampering, or anything else that may vitiate an AFL intervention.

Rhys Palmer was traded last year for pick 135, and he's nowhere near getting a game for Carlton, so I can only assume this deal is along similar lines. It's somewhat similar to the deal we orchestrated to get Jade Rawlings to North also.

I think taking a body blow of ~$1m is worth considerably more than a late pick personally.

[bulldogtragic]

Hypothetically speaking;

Say Lever stays, and we are still allegedly flush for cap space; do we just take on Tippet's whole salary?

In the NFL this past season, the Browns took on an atrocious contract from the Texans, and in the process also obtained a second round pick from them. I think we could look at a similar type deal, taking on Tippet's whole salary and a 2nd pick for a pick in the 160's. He's only contracted for next season anyway, and it would give Dalrymple another swing at a guy in the 20's, which seems to be his passion in life. Plus who knows, he might be not horrible? The guy that the Browns got in their trade is slated to start at Quarterback for them on opening day.

Sydney are rumoured to be chasing every big fish every single year, so they will probably need the cap space Kurt is currently chewing up. I think it makes for a pretty pragmatic move.

I posted something similar-ish a few pages back, but using the Jade Rawlings trade to North. North took on the bulk of his salary for a minor upgrade in draft pick that netted them their future captain in Swallow. It's an interesting list management philosophical question about whether giving up money/salary cap for a good draft pick is workable. How much money is worth pick 30 (their second rounder give or take, maybe throw in a fringe player we want too) for example? Is that a 80/20 split of the contract, or the whole contract. There's no market to evaluate worth/value on a trade like this which makes for some confusion. Basically we'd buying a draft pick quite literally. It's a really, really interesting thing to think about. Selling it to fans who don't appreciate the finer points would be hard for club and open us up to Barrett & Co. But that's not a reason not to look at it of do it.

[Sedat]

I'm not sure we can do that Happy Days, I don't think I've ever seen a deal that gives a player and an early draft pick for a late draft pick even if it does provide considerable salary cap relief for one team. Still the AFL are determined to follow US sports with trades etc

I suspect Tippet and his contract might be considered for a late pick
We gave Jade Rawlings and a draft pick away for a slightly worse pick - from memory it was a 3 pick downgrade and it netted Norf Andrew Swallow. We got the last laugh though - those handful of games that Travis Baird played were spectacular :o

[GVGjr]

We gave Jade Rawlings and a draft pick away for a slightly worse pick - from memory it was a 3 pick downgrade and it netted Norf Andrew Swallow. We got the last laugh though - those handful of games that Travis Baird played were spectacular :o

I forgot about that one. My guess is that it was seen as helpful to the player but I wonder if the question around us footing some of the salary was part of it as well?

Given the picks were close I can see the AFL ticking that one off and I doubt other clubs would challenge it but I think us getting say pick 30 and Tippet for pick 60 might be more heavily scrutinized.

[bulldogtragic]

I forgot about that one. My guess is that it was seen as helpful to the player but I wonder if the question around us footing some of the salary was part of it as well?

Given the picks were close I can see the AFL ticking that one off and I doubt other clubs would challenge it but I think us getting say pick 30 and Tippet for pick 60 might be more heavily scrutinized.

Surely pick 6 for Lachie Veale is far worse a manipulation of the trade system from us and Hawks, than say Tippett and pick 30 for pick 75 (St Kilda's 5th coming to us) They signed off on the Veale Deal.

[GVGjr]

Surely pick 6 for Lachie Veale is far worse a manipulation of the trade system from us and Hawks, than say Tippett and pick 30 for pick 75 (St Kilda's 5th coming to us) They signed off on the Veale Deal.

There was plausible deniability and I don't think that would fly now.

[Topdog]

They aren't close to the same thing though. One was manipulating the draft, this would be 2 teams working on their list

[Axe Man]

Hypothetically speaking;

Say Lever stays, and we are still allegedly flush for cap space; do we just take on Tippet's whole salary?

In the NFL this past season, the Browns took on an atrocious contract from the Texans, and in the process also obtained a second round pick from them. I think we could look at a similar type deal, taking on Tippet's whole salary and a 2nd pick for a pick in the 160's. He's only contracted for next season anyway, and it would give Dalrymple another swing at a guy in the 20's, which seems to be his passion in life. Plus who knows, he might be not horrible? The guy that the Browns got in their trade is slated to start at Quarterback for them on opening day.

Sydney are rumoured to be chasing every big fish every single year, so they will probably need the cap space Kurt is currently chewing up. I think it makes for a pretty pragmatic move.

As I posted a few pages back, he's contracted until the end of 2020.

He isn't on as much money as he was originally though - he renegotiated a longer term for less dollars.

Link (http://www.news.com.au/sport/afl/sydney-swans/kurt-tippett-expected-to-remain-at-sydney-despite-rumours-of-an-offseason-trade/news-story/d4486948b12266a8d28cad58e48fdd5a)

[bornadog]

As I posted a few pages back, he's contracted until the end of 2020.

He isn't on as much money as he was originally though - he renegotiated a longer term for less dollars.

Link (http://www.news.com.au/sport/afl/sydney-swans/kurt-tippett-expected-to-remain-at-sydney-despite-rumours-of-an-offseason-trade/news-story/d4486948b12266a8d28cad58e48fdd5a)

A massive no way to Tippett, I don't care what he is on.

[Axe Man]

A massive no way to Tippett, I don't care what he is on.

Agreed - we've already got a younger better Tippett - his name is Tom Boyd.

Tippett was a very good player but those days seem behind him and he doesn't fill a need for us.

[Happy Days]

As I posted a few pages back, he's contracted until the end of 2020.

He isn't on as much money as he was originally though - he renegotiated a longer term for less dollars.

Link (http://www.news.com.au/sport/afl/sydney-swans/kurt-tippett-expected-to-remain-at-sydney-despite-rumours-of-an-offseason-trade/news-story/d4486948b12266a8d28cad58e48fdd5a)

Hmm that obscures it a bit then. I'd think about it for their first.

[kruder]

I have this feeling JMAC might be a target himself surely Collingwood come for him?

[ledge]

I have this feeling JMAC might be a target himself surely Collingwood come for him?

Well if he leaves it will be for next seasons draft .. A little late for this years one.
It's an interesting thought though as a recruiter do you go to a club that's on the rebuild or stay with a club you have built and know exactly what's going on and your successful.

[Bulldog4life]

I have this feeling JMAC might be a target himself surely Collingwood come for him?

Signed a new contract with Dal not long ago.

[bulldogtragic]

Anyone else coming around to Rockliff as free agent?

Today: 22 disposals (77% efficiency), 4 marks (2 inside 50), 2 goals & 1 goal assist, 5 clearances, 4 tackles, smattering of other stats. - Against a pretty good midfield today too.

[GVGjr]

Anyone else coming around to Rockliff as free agent?

Today: 22 disposals (77% efficiency), 4 marks (2 inside 50), 2 goals & 1 goal assist, 5 clearances, 4 tackles, smattering of other stats. - Against a pretty good midfield today too.

I'm not against him especially given his effort against Bryce Gibbs the other week shows he can another role than just a high possession winner. Apparently he has a few clubs interested in him and we haven't been linked to him yet

[bulldogtragic]

I'm not against him especially given his effort against Bryce Gibbs the other week shows he can another role than just a high possession winner. Apparently he has a few clubs interested in him and we haven't been linked to him yet

he's not tall enough for the media to link him to us... :D

[jeemak]

I think I saw Port Adelaide were leading the chase, whatever that means mid-season.....

[comrade]

Anyone else coming around to Rockliff as free agent?

Today: 22 disposals (77% efficiency), 4 marks (2 inside 50), 2 goals & 1 goal assist, 5 clearances, 4 tackles, smattering of other stats. - Against a pretty good midfield today too.

I'm all for adding another quality midfielder to our mix if it allows Bont to play more forward time.

[westbulldog]

I think we just need 2 KPD's and a Ruckman

[Topdog]

I think we just need 2 KPD's and a Ruckman

Adams, Roberts, Zordy, Morris, Collins are probably the 5 we have at the moment.

Collins apparently has been doing well in the 2s recently

[bornadog]

Adams, Roberts, Zordy, Morris, Collins are probably the 5 we have at the moment.

Collins apparently has been doing well in the 2s recently

People keep forgetting, Collins is only 19 years old and won't be 20 till December - so needs a lot of development time yet.

[ledge]

People keep forgetting, Collins is only 19 years old and won't be 20 till December - so needs a lot of development time yet.

He has come along way since last year , he looked to big and slow last year but he is starting to get into a Rythmn with mind and body working together on instinct and confidence.
Wouldn't be up with a fit Adams yet though.

[Remi Moses]

I reckon Collins is going to play about 70 to 80 vfl games until he makes his mark . Probably similar to what Hawthorn have done with the likes of Brand and a few others

[bornadog]

I think we just need 2 KPD's and a Ruckman

This thread is for specific players from other clubs - who would you like JMac to target? We are already targeting Lever, is there anyone else we should go for?

[Mantis]

Adams, Roberts, Zordy, Morris, Collins are probably the 5 we have at the moment.

Collins apparently has been doing well in the 2s recently

Add in Young too.

[Twodogs]

This thread is for specific players from other clubs - who would you like JMac to target? We are already targeting Lever, is there anyone else we should go for?

I hope we are into Josh Kelly. The Bont and Kelly in the same midfield would be nice.

[bornadog]

I hope we are into Josh Kelly. The Bont and Kelly in the same midfield would be nice.

Yes, Kelly is the player I want.

[Topdog]

I hope we are into Josh Kelly. The Bont and Kelly in the same midfield would be nice.

Not sure we will see that. I can see Bont moving to perm forward already

[bulldogtragic]

Yes, Kelly is the player I want.

Kelly would be an amazing get. If we as a club can show him we are pushing for a dynasty with some September success, that must be an advantage over others who will be in phases of rebuilding.

I'm wanting a trade with picks and also a free agency combo:

1. Kelly (trade: gun mid) & McKenzie (FA: very good tall defender, more than competent in similar defence systems, a former B&F and allows us to use Adams or Young forward if we want to. That might mean our next KPF is already on the list) - My preference.

2. Lever (trade: gun defender) & Rockliff (FA: very good midfielder) - Very good plan B.

If Campbell gets traded out, then we need a ruckman. I'd be asking Kruezer not to activate his extension clause and go via free agency.

Our good as a team, is very good. If we can bring in two or three ready made players, potentially best 22 players, that should raise us up another level. You look at Geelong & Hawthorn, at some point you bring in quality ready mades quite aggressively to keep pushing harder for sustained success towards a dynasty. I think this year is the year to do it.

[westbulldog]

This thread is for specific players from other clubs - who would you like JMac to target? We are already targeting Lever, is there anyone else we should go for?

Thanks for the reminder. I have already said in a previous post "If we want to recruit from the Swans I would go for Alir Alir, not Tippett although he could be useful if he came cheap and could stay on the park." Zac Smith, Jack Martin, Tom McDonald, Robbie Tarrant if they haven't re-signed. McStay would have been ideal.

[Axe Man]

Thanks for the reminder. I have already said in a previous post "If we want to recruit from the Swans I would go for Alir Alir, not Tippett although he could be useful if he came cheap and could stay on the park." Zac Smith, Jack Martin, Tom McDonald, Robbie Tarrant if they haven't re-signed. McStay would have been ideal.

Not sure about Smith but the others are all contracted (and I imagine McDonald and Tarrant would be completely unobtainable in any case).

[Twodogs]

Yes, Kelly is the player I want.

I think he's more important to us than Lever. Lever is covered by the tall defensive options we have on the list already and only Bont does some of the things Kelly does. Kelly eats pressure for breakfast, in that close finish GWS had a couple of weeks ago Kelly was one of the few players at end of the game who really wanted the ball in his hands. It's no coincidence that it was him who kicked the goal that won the game. I think he's gettable too.


Not sure we will see that. I can see Bont moving to perm forward already

In any other age he'd be a forward with his height and agility.


Thanks for the reminder. I have already said in a previous post "If we want to recruit from the Swans I would go for Alir Alir, not Tippett although he could be useful if he came cheap and could stay on the park." Zac Smith, Jack Martin, Tom McDonald, Robbie Tarrant if they haven't re-signed. McStay would have been ideal.

McDonald plays at both ends. Would be good. What sort of ruckman would you be looking for? A solid state league type or experienced no 1 from another club?



Not sure about Smith but the others are all contracted (and I imagine McDonald and Tarrant would be completely unobtainable in any case).

I think Alir Alir is out of contract. He's one I'd be looking at as a KPP as he has a bit more height and defends a little better than a couple of our existing KPPs.

[Axe Man]

I think Alir Alir is out of contract. He's one I'd be looking at as a KPP as he has a bit more height and defends a little better than a couple of our existing KPPs.

I wasn't referring to Alir as he has already been discussed previously, just the players I highlighted in bold.

[josie]

I'd rather Kelly than Lever and then a ready made ruck (poor Campbell seems perennially injured, even more than Roughy) plus someone like Alir as another speedy backman. However I am not sure we can afford Kelly so Lever back and free up Young, Adams and possibly Roberts to be a forward is ok too. And unless we can make a small, quick, goal kicking forward out of Honey or Dahl or Smith i think we need one of those too.

[bulldogtragic]

I'd rather Kelly than Lever and then a ready made ruck (poor Campbell seems perennially injured, even more than Roughy) plus someone like Alir as another speedy backman. However I am not sure we can afford Kelly so Lever back and free up Young, Adams and possibly Roberts to be a forward is ok too. And unless we can make a small, quick, goal kicking forward out of Honey or Dahl or Smith i think we need one of those too.

If we are still good for HBFs next year, I wonder if JJ could be the quick and high pressure forward that can chase down tackle and rush opposition disposal. His goal kicking seems steady and overhead marking also seems ok. Or could we try Lynch in the forward pocket. It's a vital spot these days and I don't see Clay Smith being the versatile, nimble forward pocket type.

[lemmon]

What about Gunston? I'd think the Hawks would be keen to trade back into the first round

[bulldogtragic]

What about Gunston? I'd think the Hawks would be keen to trade back into the first round

I've mentioned him before, not any takers on here. His finals record is brilliant. If we are going to be playing in September for some time, I'd love to have him.

[ratsmac]

Apparently Sam Reid just re-signed with the swanies