Bulldog ONLY Trade News

[bulldogtragic]

Reports afel media that we have offered our F1 for GCS Pick 13 (they got from us this year). 6 clubs chasing the pick.

Carlton have offered up F1 & F2. So we might need to add pick/s to beat them if we really want it.

[EasternWest]

Reports afel media that we have offered our F1 for GCS Pick 13 (they got from us this year). 6 clubs chasing the pick.

Prima facie why would they go for this?

[bulldogtragic]

On face value why would they go for this?

They have an academy kid again, so it’s likely to go to the highest bidder. Currently Carlton with an extra F2. But they might want the points this year, so our picks from CD, Jack &/or 47 might do it.

Assuming Smith & F2 is 1st & F1. Big assumption.

That’d give us 13, 17, 35 or so this year plus, and a first next year still with a lot of spare salary cap.

[bulldogtragic]

The club thinks we are finishing top 8 or higher again.

[chef]

I'd rather hold our F1, will probs be a top 10 pick next season.

[EasternWest]

They have an academy kid again, so it’s likely to go to the highest bidder. Currently Carlton with an extra F2. But they might want the points this year, so our picks from CD, Jack &/or 47 might do it.

Assuming Smith & F2 is 1st & F1. Big assumption.

That’d give us 13, 17, 35 or so this year plus, and a first next year still with a lot of spare salary cap.

My head is spinning and I don't understand any of this. That's why we've got you.

[bulldogtragic]

My head is spinning and I don't understand any of this. That's why we've got you.

Essentially we won the trade casino with GCS and want to bet it all, double or nothing. I posted this morning we could try this, but would need some convincing. I’d really want to know we’ve got the first & F1 for Smith. If this occurs, then I’m happy to trade a F1 for Pick 13 this year, knowing there’s still one for next year.

Sounds like it’s going to be fierce competition for it.

[whythelongface]

They have an academy kid again, so it?s likely to go to the highest bidder. Currently Carlton with an extra F2. But they might want the points this year, so our picks from CD, Jack &/or 47 might do it.

Assuming Smith & F2 is 1st & F1. Big assumption.

That?d give us 13, 17, 35 or so this year plus, and a first next year still with a lot of spare salary cap.

Do we go to the draft or will we be making a play for someone? Interesting 10 days ahead

[Happy Days]

Prima facie why would they go for this?

My man said “Prima facie”

[bulldogtragic]

Do we go to the draft or will we be making a play for someone? Interesting 10 days ahead

That’s the fascinating thing. North & WCE are putting up picks 2 & 3 for multiple firsts and an F1.

If we turned Smith, CD, say 46 & 47, F1 & F2 for an out and out gun midfielder at Pick 3 & F2 would we want that from North?

So there’s an opportunity to rise to the really pointy end.

Or trade aggressively.

Or load up of late first round talent.


It’s another ballsy moved from Power whichever way he ultimately goes if he does it again.

[EasternWest]

My man said “Prima facie”

I didn't at first. But then I changed it because I wanted to sound more intellectumual because I was wading in waters too deep for me.

[Grantysghost]

That’s the fascinating thing. North & WCE are putting up picks 2 & 3 for multiple firsts and an F1.

If we turned Smith, CD, say 46 & 47, F1 & F2 for an out and out gun midfielder at Pick 3 & F2 would we want that from North?

So there’s an opportunity to rise to the really pointy end.

Or trade aggressively.

Or load up of late first round talent.


It’s another ballsy moved from Power whichever way he ultimately goes if he does it again.
Deeper draft I think we take the picks and use them.

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

I didn't at first. But then I changed it because I wanted to sound more intellectumual because I was wading in waters too deep for me.

BT don't play like that.

[bulldogtragic]

Deeper draft I think we take the picks and use them.

Playing with numbers. If we need to supplement our F1. If we can get 46 for Jack. 46 & 47 = Pick 29 in points to add to our F1. That’s a strong offer to GCS. If we can get 25 for CD (30 after bids) say a F3 if necessary to add for argument sake. Smith & F2 for 17 & F1.

2024: Natural Picks 13, 17, 25 & 35 and delisted free agent
2025: First (Geel), JOD elevated, LOTS of salary cap (FA?)
2026: West and perhaps Cooney

[bulldogtragic]

The Age also confirming we are after Pick 13 too.

[bulldogsthru&thru]

What if we want Butters next year?

[bulldogtragic]

What if we want Butters next year?

He’s signed until 2026. If he comes before then they’ll be asking for Marra.

[mjp]

He’s signed until 2026. If he comes before then they’ll be asking for Marra.

I'd do that.

[bulldogtragic]

Monday AM Update:

- Dogs after GCS Pick 13
- Dogs have 4 year offer for XOH
- Saints going to fight not to give up Pick 46 for Jack
- Garcia & CD yet to advise the club of intentions
- Sounds like Geelong’s offer is 17 (20+) alone for BS

[GVGjr]

Monday AM Update:

- Dogs after GCS Pick 13
- Dogs have 4 year offer for XOH
- Saints going to fight not to give up Pick 46 for Jack
- Garcia & CD yet to advise the club of intentions
- Sounds like Geelong’s offer is 17 (20+) alone for BS

Good summary.

After our early interest in Barrass and Houston, I'm a little surprised we aren't currently linked to at least one more player from another club but there is plenty of time for that to happen.

[bornadog]

Monday AM Update:

- Dogs after GCS Pick 13


From AFL site

The Demons and Bulldogs have both offered their future first-round pick in exchange for Gold Coast's pick 13, while the Swans have put forward picks 19 and 22.

[chef]

I'd do that.

Me too.

[azabob]

I am fully on board with trading our F1 and other picks to get GCS pick 13.

The draft appears to be stacked with midfielders in the first 20 odd picks.

As they stand, taking picks 13, 17, 35 and 47 to this years draft is crazy good and something we should do.

[Axe Man]

From AFL site

The Demons and Bulldogs have both offered their future first-round pick in exchange for Gold Coast's pick 13, while the Swans have put forward picks 19 and 22.

Carlton are offering their F1 and F2. Unless Gold Coast expects us to be crap next year I don't think we are going to win the auction with just our F1.

[bulldogtragic]

Carlton are offering their F1 and F2. Unless Gold Coast expects us to be crap next year I don't think we are going to win the auction with just our F1.

Yep. The question is is whether they want an F2 or points equal to a Second this year. We can do that easily enough if we want to up our offer.

[bornadog]

From The Age


The Bulldogs are also expected to drive a hard bargain with St Kilda for premiership midfielder Jack Macrae.

A source with knowledge of the negotiations, who would not be named to speak freely, said the Western Bulldogs were prepared to hold Macrae to his contract if the right deal can?t be found.

Macrae was on the fringes of selection in 2024 and ended up starting as a sub in the elimination final after being overlooked for James Harmes, who was playing his first match since round 12.

Macrae is contracted until 2027. An industry source, who preferred to remain anonymous while negotiations were under way, confirmed that the Saints were not keen to hand over pick 46 for the 30-year-old, who has battled for a permanent position in the Bulldogs? midfield in the past two seasons.

Both clubs are expected to use historic examples of trades of contracted veterans to argue their case when it comes to the trade.

[bulldogtragic]

From The Age

Seriously 46 is a straight up fair deal. Do it and move on.

[comrade]

Pick 46 too much for Jack ****ing Macrae? Alright, Saints.

[Mantis]

Pick 46 too much for Jack ****ing Macrae? Alright, Saints.

The system is completely broken.

Noble is potentially worth pick 13, but Macrae pick 60 something??

[angelopetraglia]

The system is completely broken.

Noble is potentially worth pick 13, but Macrae pick 60 something??

Agree.

However. We damaged Macrae's value during the year. We dropped him. Played him as a sub in the final. So we told the footy world he is surplus to our needs. Why would you play top value for a player who can't make the best 22 of a team that can't get past the first week of the finals?

[Happy Days]

I am fully on board with trading our F1 and other picks to get GCS pick 13.

The draft appears to be stacked with midfielders in the first 20 odd picks.

As they stand, taking picks 13, 17, 35 and 47 to this years draft is crazy good and something we should do.

Can we use GC as a holding company to trade our future first for our current first in perpetuity? Honestly would be a great bit if nothing else.

[comrade]

Agree.

However. We damaged Macrae's value during the year. We dropped him. Played him as a sub in the final. So we told the footy world he is surplus to our needs. Why would you play top value for a player who can't make the best 22 of a team that can't get past the first week of the finals?

He?s contracted and the Saints want him. He?s not surplus to their needs, which is the most important element. Pay a more than fair price and get a deal done, rather than convince a player to request a trade then lowball the seller and deal in bad faith. From the outside looking in, we?re expected to act like door mats by the footy world.

[angelopetraglia]

He?s contracted and the Saints want him. He?s not surplus to their needs, which is the most important element. Pay a more than fair price and get a deal done, rather than convince a player to request a trade then lowball the seller and deal in bad faith. From the outside looking in, we?re expected to act like door mats by the footy world.

Agree. We have leverage as he his contracted. However, my point is still valid. His value would have been higher if we traded him last year.

[Mantis]

Agree. We have leverage as he his contracted. However, my point is still valid. His value would have been higher if we traded him last year.

I fully understand Macrae?s value has been lessened by our use of him, but when compared to Noble one would think their respective worth would be similar.

Maybe Noble holds a little higher value, but not to the level that is being reported.

[Grantysghost]

I'd do that.

And you wanna be my latex salesman......

[Axe Man]

The system is completely broken.

Noble is potentially worth pick 13, but Macrae pick 60 something??

I don't think anybody thinks Noble is worth pick 13 and that's not the deal being proposed:


Collingwood, meanwhile, is targeting the pick as part of the John Noble trade to the Suns. That would require the Magpies to also give up a future first-round pick, but they would also look to get back pick 23 from Gold Coast in return.

[G-Mo77]

Agree.

However. We damaged Macrae's value during the year. We dropped him. Played him as a sub in the final. So we told the footy world he is surplus to our needs. Why would you play top value for a player who can't make the best 22 of a team that can't get past the first week of the finals?

Sadly you're right. I think 46 is fair for both parties and think they'll fall to that eventually I can't blame them for trying though.

We hardly played him and we are over paying him, they're kind of doing us a favour by taking him off our books and those deals tend to be very lop sided. We got Treloar for a downgrade of picks, we're not that desperate to clear space as much as Collingwood were back then but it's heavily in our favour, supporters are not going to be pleased if they're expecting a lot in return.

[bornadog]

Agree.

However. We damaged Macrae's value during the year. We dropped him. Played him as a sub in the final. So we told the footy world he is surplus to our needs. Why would you play top value for a player who can't make the best 22 of a team that can't get past the first week of the finals?

Although he was sub a few times, still ended up with 19 games for the year

[Axe Man]

Sadly you're right. I think 46 is fair for both parties and think they'll fall to that eventually I can't blame them for trying though.

We hardly played him and we are over paying him, they're kind of doing us a favour by taking him off our books and those deals tend to be very lop sided. We got Treloar for a downgrade of picks, we're not that desperate to clear space as much as Collingwood were back then but it's heavily in our favour, supporters are not going to be pleased if they're expecting a lot in return.

I don't disagree with what you are saying but the prevailing narrative that he was playing VFL for most of the year simply isn't true. He played 3 VFL games. The first was when he was returning from injury at the start of the season. The only other time he was out of the side was from rounds 21-23 when he played 2 VFL games. 19 AFL games is not hardly playing him, especially when he wasn't available for selection for the first couple of weeks.

[lemmon]

Agree.

However. We damaged Macrae's value during the year. We dropped him. Played him as a sub in the final. So we told the footy world he is surplus to our needs. Why would you play top value for a player who can't make the best 22 of a team that can't get past the first week of the finals?

All of those things are true, but also irrelevant. He's contracted, so at the end of the day his value is whatever we deem it to be. It's the same with XOH - we'll have to give up whatever GWS deem valuable enough to release him from his contract.

At the end of the day, it's an 18-team competition and there's no point giving a leg up to rivals unless we're receiving compensation that we deem fair value.

[jazzadogs]

AFL website says Sam Power will be on trade radio at 1pm. Would love a summary from anyone who is able to listen in!

[azabob]

AFL website says Sam Power will be on trade radio at 1pm. Would love a summary from anyone who is able to listen in!

jazzdogs, not sure if you know or not but there will be a podcast replay up throughout the day.

[jazzadogs]

jazzdogs, not sure if you know or not but there will be a podcast replay up throughout the day.

Thanks. What's the ratio of ads to content during the podcast? Can't be worse than the live product.

[Hotdog60]

AFL website says Sam Power will be on trade radio at 1pm. Would love a summary from anyone who is able to listen in!

Played a straight bat and gave away nothing.

[my plums]

Played a straight bat and gave away nothing.

He said a lot without saying anything at all.

[bulldogsthru&thru]

Played a straight bat and gave away nothing.


He said a lot without saying anything at all.

So which was it? :D

[bornadog]

AFL website says Sam Power will be on trade radio at 1pm. Would love a summary from anyone who is able to listen in!


Played a straight bat and gave away nothing.

*Bailey Smith - Looking for a lot more - when pressed what that is said just looking for a lot.
* Macrae - No chats with Saints at this stage. Unless it suits Dogs, won't be giving him away
* Caleb Daniel - No indication from his management about staying or going.
* XOH - No comment, he is a contracted player
* Looking at athletic mids
* Pick 13 - If we don't get that, we are open to trading for other opportunities to get into round 1
* Dan Housten - I missed exactly what he said.

[Countrydog5]

List managers, media members and player managers alike would all hate how close Sam keeps his cards to his chest. I'm starting to think he's stitched his eyelids to his forehead because the man does not blink, or give even the slightest of hints as to what he's thinking. It's hilarious

[jazzadogs]

*Bailey Smith - Looking for a lot more - when pressed what that is said just looking for a lot.
* Macrae - No chats with Saints at this stage. Unless it suits Dogs, won't be giving him away
* Caleb Daniel - No indication from his management about staying or going.
* XOH - No comment, he is a contracted player
* Looking at athletic mids
* Pick 13 - If we don't get that, we are open to trading for other opportunities to get into round 1
* Dan Housten - I missed exactly what he said.

Contracted no comment.

[jazzadogs]

List managers, media members and player managers alike would all hate how close Sam keeps his cards to his chest. I'm starting to think he's stitched his eyelids to his forehead because the man does not blink, or give even the slightest of hints as to what he's thinking. It's hilarious

I ended up being able to listen and it was very funny how they crossed back to the hosts who immediately slammed him for being boring and not giving them anything to talk about.

Stupid Sam Power doing his job, rather than creating #content about who he thinks is #gettable.

Edit: just realised the hosts are Tom Morris and Dan Hanneberry who both famously love the Bulldogs.

[bornadog]

"We think Bailey is worth a lot. We expect a lot for him."


- Sam Power on Bailey Smith

[chef]

"We think Bailey is worth a lot. We expect a lot for him."


- Sam Power on Bailey Smith

Sadly we don't have any hand. Uncontracted puts us in a beggar position.

[bulldogsthru&thru]

Sadly we don't have any hand. Uncontracted puts us in a beggar position.

There were rumours about hawks offering pick 5 for him last year. You wonder what, if any, offers we had and what we may have knocked back.

[Jeanette54]

If the Saints trade of Jack Macrae doesn't happen, would he still play for us? I have no doubt that he has been told he may not get to play in the position he wants this season, but still hoping he remains with us.

I hate this time of year; Jack should be a Bulldog for life.

[angelopetraglia]

If the Saints trade of Jack Macrae doesn't happen, would he still play for us? I have no doubt that he has been told he may not get to play in the position he wants this season, but still hoping he remains with us.

I hate this time of year; Jack should be a Bulldog for life.

He is contracted. He doesn't have a choice. If we don't trade him. He will play in the red, white and blue.

[angelopetraglia]

Sam Power three minute interview for those interested.

https://x.com/traderadio/status/1843113161811181994

[angelopetraglia]

"We are waiting on an answer from Caleb Daniel, he has plenty to think about. We think we can provide him with an ideal playing position." - Brady Rawlings, North Melbourne List Manager

[angelopetraglia]

"Ivan is a contracted player and there' a fair bit of work to do. Exactly the same with Jack Macrae. We have run a dual narrative with the draft and trade. We will go to the Draft again this year." - David Misson, St Kilda GM of Footy

[azabob]

Thanks. What's the ratio of ads to content during the podcast? Can't be worse than the live product.

One or two adds at the start then zero until the end. The only way to listen.

[Countrydog5]

I ended up being able to listen and it was very funny how they crossed back to the hosts who immediately slammed him for being boring and not giving them anything to talk about.

Stupid Sam Power doing his job, rather than creating #content about who he thinks is #gettable.

Edit: just realised the hosts are Tom Morris and Dan Hanneberry who both famously love the Bulldogs.

Approach a famously tight lipped list manager for an interview, be shocked and upset said list manager gives nothing away. Really stunned the two Einstein's in Morris and Hannebery

[Sedat]

One or two adds at the start then zero until the end. The only way to listen.
Yes, but it doesn't feel the same without hearing ads for Robot Building Supplies and Ace Gutters every 5 minutes.

[jeemak]

Yes, but it doesn't feel the same without hearing ads for Robot Building Supplies and Ace Gutters every 5 minutes.

Can somebody get Franco off the toilet? It?s not connected!!

[Grantysghost]

Sam Power three minute interview for those interested.

https://x.com/traderadio/status/1843113161811181994

Thanks AP! Love Sam, he winds people up by being so vanilla but that's exactly what I want.
Did he accidently say court there!?

[Scraggers]

What is Sam Power's record when being bent over on deals? From my recollection he has stood firm and done us good. I can't recall a deal that was well-unders what we were asking for (please correct me if I'm wrong)

If I am correct, I am happy to play hard ball with Bailey Smith and let him walk to the PSD. I would rather get Sweet FA than lose a deal to Geelong. Happy to play real hardball here ... play stupid games, win stupid prizes ... happy to get nothing for him and Richmond get a free hit (like them more than Geelong) :p

[GVGjr]

*Bailey Smith - Looking for a lot more - when pressed what that is said just looking for a lot.
* Macrae - No chats with Saints at this stage. Unless it suits Dogs, won't be giving him away
* Caleb Daniel - No indication from his management about staying or going.
* XOH - No comment, he is a contracted player
* Looking at athletic mids
* Pick 13 - If we don't get that, we are open to trading for other opportunities to get into round 1
* Dan Housten - I missed exactly what he said.

Good summary
Regarding Houston, he basically just said there is a lot of interest in him but he's contracted.

Bloody hard to expect more direct or detailed answers unless a player has actually put in a request to come too us.
Power is copping a bit of stick for his straight bat answers but it's not like he can share much more than what he has.

[Grantysghost]

Good summary
Regarding Houston, he basically just said there is a lot of interest in him but he's contracted.

Bloody hard to expect more direct or detailed answers unless a player has actually put in a request to come too us.
Power is copping a bit of stick for his straight bat answers but it's not like he can share much more than what he has.
Lots of flogs on socials isn't there.

The sky is falling and no one will make it stop.

What exactly do they want him to say?

[jazzadogs]

We have increased our offer to Garcia, from two years to three years. To me this indicates that we are valuing his signature higher now that our other targets are highly unlikely. Hope he stays and works on his deficits.

[DOG GOD]

I'd do that.

100%

[bulldogtragic]

Monday AM Update:

- Dogs after GCS Pick 13
- Dogs have 4 year offer for XOH
- Saints going to fight not to give up Pick 46 for Jack
- Garcia & CD yet to advise the club of intentions
- Sounds like Geelong?s offer is 17 (20+) alone for BS

Monday PM Update

- Collingwood now strong favourites for GCS Pick 13
- XOH unlikely to be released
- Saints haven?t made a formal offer for Jack
- Garcia offer from us increased to 3 years, CD yet to decide
- Geelong still sound a long way off


We are firing more blanks than Tom Cruise.

[Happy Days]

- Collingwood now strong favourites for GCS Pick 13
- XOH unlikely to be released
- Saints haven?t made a formal offer for Jack
- Garcia offer from us increased to 3 years, CD yet to decide
- Geelong still sound a long way off


We are firing more blanks than Tom Cruise.

We can always recruit Ethan Hunt out of the VFL team though.

[GVGjr]

We have increased our offer to Garcia, from two years to three years. To me this indicates that we are valuing his signature higher now that our other targets are highly unlikely. Hope he stays and works on his deficits.

He should jump at a 3 year offer. He's still got some improvement to achieve as well.

[DOG GOD]

Monday PM Update

- Collingwood now strong favourites for GCS Pick 13
- XOH unlikely to be released
- Saints haven?t made a formal offer for Jack
- Garcia offer from us increased to 3 years, CD yet to decide
- Geelong still sound a long way off


We are firing more blanks than Tom Cruise.

Geel has a dunk/Bris vibe all over it. I can see it going down to the last 1/2 hour and we accept pick 17 and 17 only.

[Eastdog]

Geel has a dunk/Bris vibe all over it. I can see it going down to the last 1/2 hour and we accept pick 17 and 17 only.

Yeah I know what you mean. I hope we don’t give in that easily and get the best possible deal.

Him being out of contract makes a difference.

[azabob]

North are offering Caleb Daniel a four year contract according to Mitch Cleary.

Currently he has two more years remaining.

[1eyedog]

Another two Bulldog Premiership players potentially running around against us next season. Sheez.

Not sure Geelong are factoring in the boost to membership and merchandise sales Smith will bring in next year. How do you quantify it though?

[Eastdog]

Yes, but it doesn't feel the same without hearing ads for Robot Building Supplies and Ace Gutters every 5 minutes.

And Spitwater :D

[Grantysghost]

North are offering Caleb Daniel a four year contract according to Mitch Cleary.

Currently he has two more years remaining.
He'd be mad not to take that. He needs to look after himself.

[bulldogtragic]

He'd be mad not to take that. He needs to look after himself.

Yep. And North have to offer up 25 (30 after bids) too.

Win-Win.

[1eyedog]

You can't say we don't have a clear plan re. the type of players we're after or that we're not turning over the list (or keeping our vets a year too long).

[1eyedog]

What is Sam Power's record when being bent over on deals? From my recollection he has stood firm and done us good. I can't recall a deal that was well-unders what we were asking for (please correct me if I'm wrong)

If I am correct, I am happy to play hard ball with Bailey Smith and let him walk to the PSD. I would rather get Sweet FA than lose a deal to Geelong. Happy to play real hardball here ... play stupid games, win stupid prizes ... happy to get nothing for him and Richmond get a free hit (like them more than Geelong) :p

We're running a business no one at the club would cut their noses to spite their faces, and rightfully so!

I wasn't happy with the Dunkley numbers or the Stringer numbers at the time but I was proven wrong on that count.

Yeah the Dunkley one wasn't great nor was the Kelvin Templeton one but luckily a bit before Power's time.

[GVGjr]

North are offering Caleb Daniel a four year contract according to Mitch Cleary.

Currently he has two more years remaining.

This will be a huge test. He seems to love the club, players and coaches but a 4 year deal is compelling.
Most people in his position would ask the club to trade him but Daniel might not.

[jazzadogs]

This will be a huge test. He seems to love the club, players and coaches but a 4 year deal is compelling.
Most people in his position would ask the club to trade him but Daniel might not.

I wonder how the salary compares (I assume his current contract is good money?), and whether the Dogs would extend his tenure by spreading out his salary. Match the years, reduce our salary burden, get close to what north are offering?

I am also comfortable with him cashing in if north are offering more cash, assuming we get a return that reflects that.

[GVGjr]

I wonder how the salary compares (I assume his current contract is good money?), and whether the Dogs would extend his tenure by spreading out his salary. Match the years, reduce our salary burden, get close to what north are offering?

I am also comfortable with him cashing in if north are offering more cash, assuming we get a return that reflects that.

North have some cap room so I'd imagine it could be a lucrative incentive for him.
Lets say he's on 650K with us. They might be offering 2M+ spread over the 4 years.

[jeemak]

North are offering Caleb Daniel a four year contract according to Mitch Cleary.

Currently he has two more years remaining.

Soooo, that's closer to a first round than a second round pick for him then.

He's contracted, we can afford him and we'll use him. If they want to double his tenure then it's time for them to pay up.

AA, Sutton medalist, still plenty of good years apparently. Late first is the compensation.

[jeemak]

Yep. And North have to offer up 25 (30 after bids) too.

Win-Win.

25 isn't enough.

If they're willing to offer up four years then it's actually a massive deal. They need to throw in a sweetener.

[bulldogtragic]

25 isn't enough.

If they're willing to offer up four years then it's actually a massive deal. They need to throw in a sweetener.

Problem 25 is it’s the third pick in the second round. It’s a really good second rounder. Not sure they’d add a F2, unless it was a swap of F2 or swap of F3. If more was demanded and offered maybe their 43 for our 47? Then 47 to Sydney for Parker?

I agree the contract is in the minimum pick 25 range.

It’s definitely getting to the point of not convincing him to stay at this range. He, Jack & Smith is $2M plus the recently savings from Hunter, Schache (lesser) & Dunkley. If we could find players that wanted to play here and take it, that’s be huge.

[G-Mo77]

Again I ask this, how can we expect a high 2nd rounder when we can't even find a place for him in the best 22. They can offer him 10 years, that does not change his value which we completely destroyed in 2024.

[ReLoad]

Again I ask this, how can we expect a high 2nd rounder when we can't even find a place for him in the best 22. They can offer him 10 years, that does not change his value which we completely destroyed in 2024.

Its not the value to us, its rather the value to them.

[bulldogtragic]

Its not the value to us, its rather the value to them.

This. They really want him and he’s contracted. He’s a great addition for them to put their young guns in the middle and have him at HB. He makes them a much better balanced side and a great leader too. If they want that as they do then 25 (30) is the starting point.

[GVGjr]

Again I ask this, how can we expect a high 2nd rounder when we can't even find a place for him in the best 22. They can offer him 10 years, that does not change his value which we completely destroyed in 2024.

Assuming Macrae heads to the Saints then I'd say Daniel is right back into the 22 because basically they were fighting for the same spot.
Daniel actually meets a lot of the requirements that North are chasing and that's why they have put a 4 year deal in front of him.
They're not just taking on his contract, they're appear to wanting to invest in him for the longer term
Perhaps we have to give a little something back too North to even out the deal but if that trade goes through it's good for both teams.
North get the experience, versatility and great team player that he is and we get a pick in the top 30. Their list is already stacked with draft talent so they are open to bringing in a few players to work with and support those youngsters.

[G-Mo77]

This. They really want him and he’s contracted. He’s a great addition for them to put their young guns in the middle and have him at HB. He makes them a much better balanced side and a great leader too. If they want that as they do then 25 (30) is the starting point.

Be realistic here and take our Bulldogs caps off, if we were chasing Caleb would you be happy giving up a high 2nd round pick? I know I wouldn't be, my starting would be a 3rd rounder.

[bulldogtragic]

Be realistic here and take our Bulldogs caps off, if we were chasing Caleb would you be happy giving up a high 2nd round pick? I know I wouldn't be, my starting would be a 3rd rounder.

No bulldog cap here. It’s in effect Pick 30. They’re offering 4 years and have stated they need leaders like him on field and for their balance on field we led they need him. He’s under contract and we don’t have to deal. Without compo picks their natural 3rd would be 39. My position he’s worth slightly more than that owing to him being contracted and them putting up 4 years. He’s got a spot with us next year, unless North back it up. If they do with 25 (30) then we let him go. If not he stays. North are doing the chasing and throwing around large year contracts. North have to pay a fair price if they want that.

[G-Mo77]

The way I see it we don't trade him at all. He's not worth a 2nd on the market right now and is a valuable player if used correctly. Losing potentially 3 senior players and getting some numbers back is a horrible situation for us, we need to tread very carefully here.

[bulldogtragic]

The way I see it we don't trade him at all. He's not worth a 2nd on the market right now and is a valuable player if used correctly. Losing potentially 3 senior players and getting some numbers back is a horrible situation for us, we need to tread very carefully here.

I don’t think he gets traded except for that 25 (3). To me it’s either a good enough pick to warrant the trade or he stays. We need to keep rebuilding on the move and a solid pick helps that. But on this one I’m happy enough to see it go through at a good price or keep him. I’m not overly fussed.

[GVGjr]

Be realistic here and take our Bulldogs caps off, if we were chasing Caleb would you be happy giving up a high 2nd round pick? I know I wouldn't be, my starting would be a 3rd rounder.

It's apples and oranges, North have a plethora of young talent and their needs are vastly different to ours. They've identified Daniel as someone they want to bring into their squad and they might be comfortable enough to pay a bit overs.
I agree that on face value they would be overpaying and perhaps we will have to give something else back but their needs are very different to ours.

[bulldogsthru&thru]

The way I see it we don't trade him at all. He's not worth a 2nd on the market right now and is a valuable player if used correctly. Losing potentially 3 senior players and getting some numbers back is a horrible situation for us, we need to tread very carefully here.

Especially when we're hearing we're considering trading our future 1st. I'm not sure I like the scenario of losing Macrae and Daniel AND trading our future 1st.

[jazzadogs]

When you combine the chat about our best and fairest top 10 all being 27+ except for Richards, and the fact that Caleb and Jack are closer to the fringe than the core of the side now...trading them out and bringing in more young kids is probably exactly what our list actually needs.

This isn't a Norf fire sale of a few years ago where they delisted every single veteran on their list - if we lose Jack and Caleb we still have considerable experience and leadership in the squad.

[bornadog]

When you combine the chat about our best and fairest top 10 all being 27+ except for Richards, and the fact that Caleb and Jack are closer to the fringe than the core of the side now...trading them out and bringing in more young kids is probably exactly what our list actually needs.

This isn't a Norf fire sale of a few years ago where they delisted every single veteran on their list - if we lose Jack and Caleb we still have considerable experience and leadership in the squad.

I said in another thread that we should be hitting the draft and forget the trade unless we bring in a young gun (somehow).

[1eyedog]

Be realistic here and take our Bulldogs caps off, if we were chasing Caleb would you be happy giving up a high 2nd round pick? I know I wouldn't be, my starting would be a 3rd rounder.

For us, no. For North, it makes more sense especially following Clarkson coming out late this season stating they were after good experienced players.

[1eyedog]

I said in another thread that we should be hitting the draft and forget the trade unless we bring in a young gun (somehow).

We've hit zero targets so far so it looks like that's the only option for us.

[Sedat]

We've hit zero targets so far so it looks like that's the only option for us.
Sometimes hitting zero targets is a big win - I give you Lobbe and Bate as evidence.

[GVGjr]

I said in another thread that we should be hitting the draft and forget the trade unless we bring in a young gun (somehow).

I liked what we did last year in bringing in 5 players from the National draft and it's been a bugbear for a few of us here over many years that we don't seem to hit the draft enough and back ourselves with some later picks. Yes, bringing in Marra, Treloar and Darcy reduced our draft capital but we now need to address it.

If we can get 3 top 30 players through the draft this year and perhaps 1 or 2 a bit later I think that will serve us better. That said, adding needs based players via trades should always be considered.

[The Underdog]

Sometimes hitting zero targets is a big win - I give you Lobbe and Bate as evidence.

If Wingard had chosen us, we’d have avoided this whole Bailey Smith mess.

[Mofra]

Be realistic here and take our Bulldogs caps off, if we were chasing Caleb would you be happy giving up a high 2nd round pick? I know I wouldn't be, my starting would be a 3rd rounder.
We were giving a 2nd rounder for Peatling weren't we, on a similar contract?
North have had more picks recently than Barratt has enemies so they do have draft capital (and cap) to spare.

[1eyedog]

Sometimes hitting zero targets is a big win - I give you Lobbe and Bate as evidence.

There is two sides to every story. Of the current list Bramble, Lobb and Duryea have been fantastic.

Baz, Macrae, Daniel and Garcia creates a bit of a vacuum so hopefully Sanders, Gallagher, Harmes, Poulter, Cleary can step up.

I'm still not convinced our potential outgoings are adequately replaced by what remains on the list (assuming our incomings through the draft are a season or two away from playing), but we're clearly moving very deliberately in a certain direction and that's a positive at this stage.

[Sedat]

There is two sides to every story. Of the current list Bramble, Lobb and Duryea have been fantastic.

Baz, Macrae, Daniel and Garcia creates a bit of a vacuum so hopefully Sanders, Gallagher, Harmes, Poulter, Cleary can step up.

I'm still not convinced our potential outgoings are adequately replaced by what remains on the list but we're clearly moving very deliberately in a certain direction and that's a positive at this stage.
Agreed but I reckon there's been a little too much doom and gloom in relation to post-season discussions around us (not from you), which I personally find surprising for a team that had the best defensive/attacking profile in the competition for the entire 2024 H&A season - the only other 2 teams with comparable balanced profiles were Hawthorn who were white-hot and knocked us off in the EF, and Brisbane who won the whole shooting match.

We have been quite deliberate with our list management strategy this off-season and also who we are specifically targeting that can add to areas of deficiency. The 2021 halcyon days are well and truly over and the game has change significantly even in that short period of time, so we have adapted accordingly this year (2 years too late IMO, but better late than never).

The elite tank one-paced accumulator is not going to get it done in 2025 - Macrae and Daniel are victims of the changing landscape but Daniel has elite disposal and decision-making weapons that are still valuable. Macrae in the right team feeds it to the outside runners, so he would be also be valuable in the right set-up. And clearly we have targeted unsexy players this off-season but those who perform roles which we have in short supply - Peatling as that defensive-oriented mid (to replace the Dunkley hole) and XOH to add to our high-half forward stocks (every team except Geelong, Hawthorn and GWS needs more of these types, not less).

We've also been hamstrung by some overly generous list management contract extensions in recent years that will hopefully be rectified next year.

I don't see the negativity that some others do at the moment. Power is not going to get screwed over in the next 8 days - he's as tough at the trade table as anyone - and we will bring in some more quality via the draft and also potentially bring in some seasoned players to bolster areas of need. I am still concerned with our ruck set-up at stoppages (especially in big games when it counts), but it is what it is.

[Axe Man]

AFL.com.au's Josh Gabelich believes Riley Garcia is set to stay at the Western Bulldogs on a three-year deal.

Garcia had attracted interest from Port Adelaide, who yesterday received a trade commitment from Collingwood's Joe Richards.

But with Bailey Smith and Jack Macrae seeking trades – plus Greater Western Sydney unwilling to let Xavier O’Halloran move – the Bulldogs are determined to keep Garcia.

"I think he'll stay at the Western Bulldogs," Gabelich said this morning.

[mjp]

I liked what we did last year in bringing in 5 players from the National draft and it's been a bugbear for a few of us here over many years that we don't seem to hit the draft enough and back ourselves with some later picks. Yes, bringing in Marra, Treloar and Darcy reduced our draft capital but we now need to address it.


But why does hitting the draft 'HARD' need to mean moving on players who can/are contributing?

I don't know Caleb personally but he has fought for EVERYTHING he has gotten in footy. He was a top 10 (probably top 5) player based on output in his draft year and fell down the order because he's small. He's worn a helmet all his life - in an era when he would have been the ONLY one - because his mum said he had too (and if you think that wouldn't have led to a heap of ridicule AND targeting on field then, well...)...he was (supposedly) overheard telling Bevo he's up to do ANYTHING for the team during the late season game against the Giants...

To me, blokes like this DON'T grow on trees. He's in the leadership group - and he has genuinely led the way in terms of the effort and team first attitude he has displayed.

Was 2024 his best ever season? No. But rule this bloke out at your peril - he is going to find a way...if we trade him, we're gonna regret it.

[kruder]

But why does hitting the draft 'HARD' need to mean moving on players who can/are contributing?

I don't know Caleb personally but he has fought for EVERYTHING he has gotten in footy. He was a top 10 (probably top 5) player based on output in his draft year and fell down the order because he's small. He's worn a helmet all his life - in an era when he would have been the ONLY one - because his mum said he had too (and if you think that wouldn't have led to a heap of ridicule AND targeting on field then, well...)...he was (supposedly) overheard telling Bevo he's up to do ANYTHING for the team during the late season game against the Giants...

To me, blokes like this DON'T grow on trees. He's in the leadership group - and he has genuinely led the way in terms of the effort and team first attitude he has displayed.

Was 2024 his best ever season? No. But rule this bloke out at your peril - he is going to find a way...if we trade him, we're gonna regret it.

Yeah it's interesting after having one below average year that we would consider selling him for a bag of chips. I think we can settle him down back next year particularly now we have plenty of talls around him and lets back him in because we certainly missed his elite disposal this year.

[Axe Man]

Yeah it's interesting after having one below average year that we would consider selling him for a bag of chips. I think we can settle him down back next year particularly now we have plenty of talls around him and lets back him in because we certainly missed his elite disposal this year.

The problem is our preferred back 7 by the end of the season seemed to be 3 talls plus Dale, Bramble, Duryea and Freijah. Who do you tip out? I would be hesitant to move Freijah to a wing yet as I feel like it's a tougher position to play, even though he may end up there eventually.

[mjp]

Agreed but I reckon there's been a little too much doom and gloom in relation to post-season discussions around us (not from you), which I personally find surprising for a team that had the best defensive/attacking profile in the competition for the entire 2024 H&A season - the only other 2 teams with comparable balanced profiles were Hawthorn who were white-hot and knocked us off in the EF, and Brisbane who won the whole shooting match.


100% mate.

The negativity is coming from a pretty tepid performance in a knock-out final...sadly that night several of our biggest/most highly paid players (Bont, Naughton, Jamarra) were poor ==> putrid and we made some 'interesting' selection decisions (Harms > Macrae)...

The impression we have left everyone with is a lot closer to Melbourne's year than Hawthorn/Brisbane's years even though our statistical rankings have us closer to the latter than the former...

My concern right now is not the draft and trade period. It's the ability of the coaching team to get us out of the blocks a LITTLE bit quicker so we don't spend all of July and August desperately scratching for victories to try and pinch a spot at the bottom of the 8. It's clear our pre-season's have not been 'RIGHT' for some time now and - Skinner Reserve issues/excuses aside - it really is time to sort that out.

[kruder]

The problem is our preferred back 7 by the end of the season seemed to be 3 talls plus Dale, Bramble, Duryea and Freijah. Who do you tip out? I would be hesitant to move Freijah to a wing yet as I feel like it's a tougher position to play, even though he may end up there eventually.

Bramble has had 1 good year at AFL level, fringe players are notorious for having a good first year after moving and then disappearing while Joel is young still hence still think there is role there for CD.

[jazzadogs]

But why does hitting the draft 'HARD' need to mean moving on players who can/are contributing?

I don't know Caleb personally but he has fought for EVERYTHING he has gotten in footy. He was a top 10 (probably top 5) player based on output in his draft year and fell down the order because he's small. He's worn a helmet all his life - in an era when he would have been the ONLY one - because his mum said he had too (and if you think that wouldn't have led to a heap of ridicule AND targeting on field then, well...)...he was (supposedly) overheard telling Bevo he's up to do ANYTHING for the team during the late season game against the Giants...

To me, blokes like this DON'T grow on trees. He's in the leadership group - and he has genuinely led the way in terms of the effort and team first attitude he has displayed.

Was 2024 his best ever season? No. But rule this bloke out at your peril - he is going to find a way...if we trade him, we're gonna regret it.

I'm genuinely not convinced that we WANT to trade Caleb. If he is offered four years by North, and we only have him contracted for two more, that does become a tricky discussion for a great leader on decent money who didn't play that much (16 games with 8 as sub). We love him, but does that make a four year deal the right choice?

[Axe Man]

Bramble has had 1 good year at AFL level, fringe players are notorious for having a good first year after moving and then disappearing while Joel is young still hence still think there is role there for CD.

Don't get me wrong, I want Caleb to stay but I do struggle to identify a clear role for him going forward. By the same token I am happy for him to be a plug and play solution where needed.

[1eyedog]

Agreed but I reckon there's been a little too much doom and gloom in relation to post-season discussions around us (not from you), which I personally find surprising for a team that had the best defensive/attacking profile in the competition for the entire 2024 H&A season - the only other 2 teams with comparable balanced profiles were Hawthorn who were white-hot and knocked us off in the EF, and Brisbane who won the whole shooting match.

We have been quite deliberate with our list management strategy this off-season and also who we are specifically targeting that can add to areas of deficiency. The 2021 halcyon days are well and truly over and the game has change significantly even in that short period of time, so we have adapted accordingly this year (2 years too late IMO, but better late than never).

The elite tank one-paced accumulator is not going to get it done in 2025 - Macrae and Daniel are victims of the changing landscape but Daniel has elite disposal and decision-making weapons that are still valuable. Macrae in the right team feeds it to the outside runners, so he would be also be valuable in the right set-up. And clearly we have targeted unsexy players this off-season but those who perform roles which we have in short supply - Peatling as that defensive-oriented mid (to replace the Dunkley hole) and XOH to add to our high-half forward stocks (every team except Geelong, Hawthorn and GWS needs more of these types, not less).

We've also been hamstrung by some overly generous list management contract extensions in recent years that will hopefully be rectified next year.

I don't see the negativity that some others do at the moment. Power is not going to get screwed over in the next 8 days - he's as tough at the trade table as anyone - and we will bring in some more quality via the draft and also potentially bring in some seasoned players to bolster areas of need. I am still concerned with our ruck set-up at stoppages (especially in big games when it counts), but it is what it is.

Yeah agreed I actually think the list is in better shape than its ever been and still do think it's a deep finals list, if we can just get a few things right. The personnel we're using at stoppages needs a bit of a shake up and we really need to sort out this small forward circus we've been rolling out.

If we can get another level from Jamarra, Darcy, Sanders and Freijah and some consistency from West we're an immediately better side. If Buss comes on that would be nice too as we really need some surety in that third tall role that Khamis and Coffield have been so far unable to bring.

[bulldogtragic]

Trade Radio:

"I believe the Saints and Dogs are haggling over that late 40s pick for Jack Macrae. The Dogs are not accepting that for him. It seems like one that will drag on for a while."

- Dan Hannebery on the Jack Macrae deal between the Dogs and the Saints

[Grantysghost]

Trade Radio:

"I believe the Saints and Dogs are haggling over that late 40s pick for Jack Macrae. The Dogs are not accepting that for him. It seems like one that will drag on for a while."

- Dan Hannebery on the Jack Macrae deal between the Dogs and the Saints
The beauty of the contract.

[Rocco Jones]

In terms of Macrae and Daniel, it's pretty layered.

What do we see as the potential of them rising above fringe? If we see a them as fringe and probably losing value over the next couple of years, then a salary dump trade really makes a lot of sense even if we don't get much value draft picks wise.

If we trade them, I think the main motive would be salary dumping, do we have strong plan we feel we can execute with the cap space? What value will we get back from freeing up the cap space?

[Sedat]

Trade Radio:

"I believe the Saints and Dogs are haggling over that late 40s pick for Jack Macrae. The Dogs are not accepting that for him. It seems like one that will drag on for a while. Also I'm still gutted by that non-free for contact below the knees from Easton Wood in the 2016 GF and the general umpiring overall. How did we not get a single free kick in the 2nd and 3rd quarters? It was daylight robbery and I will never get over it."

- Dan Hannebery on the Jack Macrae deal between the Dogs and the Saints
Edited to include the full transcript.

[Happy Days]

Dan Hannebery of all people should understand the value in trying to grift St Kilda

[comrade]

I'm genuinely not convinced that we WANT to trade Caleb. If he is offered four years by North, and we only have him contracted for two more, that does become a tricky discussion for a great leader on decent money who didn't play that much (16 games with 8 as sub). We love him, but does that make a four year deal the right choice?

Agreed. Are we all happy to extend Caleb another 2 years on top of his current deal? I wouldn?t be and I love the guy and think he?s pound for pound just about the most talented Bulldog ever.

[Sedat]

Agreed. Are we all happy to extend Caleb another 2 years on top of his current deal? I wouldn?t be and I love the guy and think he?s pound for pound just about the most talented Bulldog ever.
If Caleb chooses us for 2 years over North for 4 years, we would love him even more than we already do. And similarly if he chose the 4 year North offer, nobody would begrudge him in the slightest.

Eternal credit to him for finding a way in the last couple of months this season when he looked almost gone mid season. His size and lack of burst pace were being exposed pretty ruthlessly by the oppo players and coaches, but he overcame and endured to become a really good player late in the season. As MJP articulated, it is amazing for a 167cm player who doesn't have quick wheels to carve out such an outstanding long-term career. Where he plays moving forward I don't know for sure - he remains an elite ball user and decision-maker, and he reads the play as well as anyone. Could he run-with against the inside mid types like a Lachie Neale and hurt them the other way?

[GVGjr]

But why does hitting the draft 'HARD' need to mean moving on players who can/are contributing?

I don't know Caleb personally but he has fought for EVERYTHING he has gotten in footy. He was a top 10 (probably top 5) player based on output in his draft year and fell down the order because he's small. He's worn a helmet all his life - in an era when he would have been the ONLY one - because his mum said he had too (and if you think that wouldn't have led to a heap of ridicule AND targeting on field then, well...)...he was (supposedly) overheard telling Bevo he's up to do ANYTHING for the team during the late season game against the Giants...

To me, blokes like this DON'T grow on trees. He's in the leadership group - and he has genuinely led the way in terms of the effort and team first attitude he has displayed.

Was 2024 his best ever season? No. But rule this bloke out at your peril - he is going to find a way...if we trade him, we're gonna regret it.

We've tend to fall back to drafting mainly in rounds 1 and 2 and trading in experienced players and over time that has pushed our age profile up a bit which and this stands out a bit more when you lose players like Dunkley who in his prime and Smith who's best football might still be in front of him. I'm not wanting to move Daniel on but I can see why he might be tempted to accept a 4 year deal from North and why we might not be prepared to match it.
We have been a bit too patient with holding some of the more marginal talented players on the list a year or two more than we probably should have and to me it's a good to take a risk or two more in the drafts in the right years and this seems to be one of those.

[Uninformed]

Our list is good to great. We have plenty of role players, so the only trade should be for elite talent. The only version of that is Houston and we are unlikely there. Can't see it with the others mentioned for us. A few, or even one, elite talent/s from the draft is what we need. Could be forward, mid or back - small to medium.

[chef]

Was mentioned on the news that if we pay some of Macraes wages pick 27 is on the market for him from the Saints

[GVGjr]

Was mentioned on the news that if we pay some of Macraes wages pick 27 is on the market.

Now that might be tempting. It depends on how much though

[GVGjr]

Caleb Daniel is not expected to actively seek a move to North Melbourne unless the Dogs open the door for him to depart. [@CalTwomey]

[Virgin-Dog]

Now that might be tempting. It depends on how much though
Salary cap is a resource just like picks. If we have no other immediate plans for that money, then forking out 200-300k for a couple seasons to get a better pick seems like a no-brainer imo

Sounds like O’Halloran is the only likely pickup (if at all) so outside of front loading large contracts for existing players, it doesn’t seem like we plan on doing much else with the cash. I’d be happy to see us do it

[bulldogtragic]

Caleb Daniel is not expected to actively seek a move to North Melbourne unless the Dogs open the door for him to depart. [@CalTwomey]

Well, that’s up to North to convince us to open it. Sounds like CD will take up the offer if we get a good trade.

17 from BS
25 from CD
& 27 from Jack (with some salary, maybe even 47 to offset some salary)
35 from our hand

That’s a solid draft, plus the something else from BS (ie F1)

[EasternWest]

Was mentioned on the news that if we pay some of Macraes wages pick 27 is on the market for him from the Saints

Finally a use for the Crameri/Hurley warchest.

[jazzadogs]

Finally a use for the Crameri/Hurley warchest.

I think we should blow it all on Owies.

[hujsh]

'Take the punt': Calls for shock rival swoop as draft threat hangs over Dog's delayed deal (https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/afl-trades-news-rumours-2024-geelongs-negotiations-with-western-bulldogs-stall-over-bailey-smith-will-he-get-traded-will-he-go-into-the-draft-what-pick-will-be-traded-reactions-latest-news/news-story/14d47aaa56211fd3a20f671c29fd05e9)

Geelong's negotiations with the Western Bulldogs over Bailey Smith have reportedly hit a hurdle, in a stalling that if left unresolved, could see the star enter the AFL draft in an ultra-rare scenario.

Out of contract and having nominated Kardinia Park as his preferred home in 2025, Smith?s value has being hotly debated by the two clubs - with the Cats allegedly adamant his current value sits at no more than a first-round pick.

Speaking to Fox Footy?s Trading Day on Tuesday night, Jay Clark provided an update on the official stance of each club at the close of day two of the trade period, and why there is such a variation in their starting points for a negotiation.

'The Dogs want more than the Cats? first-round pick for Bailey Smith,' Clark begun by saying.

'That's based on his 2021 form, he's an elite athlete and highly marketable. His football in 2021 was scintillating, but the Cats are on the other side of the trade table.

'They're saying:'We want to give pick 17, and pick 17 only.''

Taken at pick 7 himself in the 2018 AFL draft, Smith is a player with tremendous upside that at his best, is one of the competition's best players.

However, an ACL injury that saw him miss the entire 2024 season has added a layer of uncertainty around his trade value - among other things, says Clark.

'If he went through to the national draft, the natural draft order will dictate that?s where he would go - pick 17, because which of the clubs are going to take the punt on Bailey Smith',' Clark asked.

'There's an elephant in the room here, it hasn't been a perfect start to his AFL career. Yes, there's been the ACL (injury), but also there?s been the mental health issues, which he's been quite open about.'

Given his status as an out-of-contract player, a non-deal between Geelong and Western Bulldogs would almost certainly see Smith re-enter the draft pool at next month's event - risking the possibility of another rival club acquiring his services before the Cats are able to make use of a selection.

And while that seems extremely unlikely given comments today from Geelong GM Andrew Mackie, it has happened before; albeit only a handful of times in the last 15 years.

'We have had a couple of chats with Sam Power (Western Bulldogs list manager); they have been held with good intent from both parties,' Mackie said on Tuesday afternoon.

Clark highly doubts Smith would be poached by a rival club before Geelong's first-round pick this upcoming draft, in what would be an extraordinary risk for any team who dares.

'If he was to fall to the draft, the Cats would get him for nothing at pick 17, because who there on that list is going to take the punt on a bloke they wouldn't even be able to interview''Clark questioned.

'Paul Connors manages him - you wouldn't even be able to get a seat at the table with Bailey Smith (to discuss a shock recruiting).

'The Cats have been working on this for 18 months, so he would go to the Cats in the draft ' it is clear to me that Geelong hold the upper hand.'

Trading Day host Ben Dixon played devil?s advocate however, suggesting that a club like St Kilda could (and should) take the punt in the highly unlikely scenario Smith does enter the draft.

'If I was St Kilda, I?d be taking the punt - and if you?re going into this draft period and you don't want to upset a manger because you?re going to have future dealings with players and it?s going to affect your relationship, you?re in it for the wrong reasons,'Dixon stated.

'They've lost Seb Ross (delisted), they?ve got (Brad) Crouch who hasn't played a lot of games (injured), they?re after (Jack) Macrae - Bailey Smith is sitting on a platter, and you can take him.

In the proposed instance where a trade for Smith cannot be agreed upon, the midfielder would need to essentially delist himself from the Bulldogs in order to be eligible as a player in this year?s draft.

In recent memory, Jackson Hately (2020), Jack Martin (2019), Jed Lamb (2013), Kurt Tippett (2012) and Nick Stevens (2002) stand out as moves via the pre-season draft of a similar nature to that hypothesised of Smith.

[Grantysghost]

Was mentioned on the news that if we pay some of Macraes wages pick 27 is on the market for him from the Saints
Wow we could have a decent draft hand to get some young talent in.
As hard as it is to see Macrae leave that could be a big win win.

[bulldogtragic]

“ the Cats would get him for nothing at pick 17”

Great intellect. A genius…

[angelopetraglia]

Why do all these journos worship at the altar of Geelong? Are they on Nigel Austin?s payroll too?

[Grantysghost]

“ the Cats would get him for nothing at pick 17”

Great intellect. A genius…
I guess he means the Dogs would get nothing.

PSD sounds nice and all but it's pick 17 and whatever else we can scrap together. Lesson: never let a contract expire.

I'm sick of all the talk when it's clear as a day where it's heading.

[hujsh]

I guess he means the Dogs would get nothing.

PSD sounds nice and all but it's pick 17 and whatever else we can scrap together. Lesson: never let a contract expire.

I'm sick of all the talk when it's clear as a day where it's heading.

1st and a pick swap?

[bulldogtragic]

1st and a pick swap?

Swap F1 & F2 and be done with. It’s not that huge a difference.

What they fail to mention is Richmond will have a Freo pick before and Smith would be a decent get in the teens to speed up their rebuild and give them a PR win. Also GWS are wanting to package their term picks up to get a Saints pick, say 8. Saints can use 7, trade 8, use 15 and use 16 on Smith before Geelong have a chance. That’s a huge result - Battle for Pick 15 & BS. Bring in Macrae as a friendly face with Cordy there too.

It’s a huge risk Geelong run. But let them and their surrogates run this tripe.

Sam just needs to sit this one to the last minute. Let the draft order change, as it will, and the chances he makes 17 by the ND are slim to none.

[G-Mo77]

This is why it's called silly season. Neither side has said stuff the other. Power was respectful with his response, Mackie was respectful with his repsonse. They're professionals and will work together and get something done. The way the media talk about these negotiations it makes them sound like they're screaming at each other.

The deal will be done, Geelong's 1st with pick upgrades or F2/F3.

[1eyedog]

If Caleb chooses us for 2 years over North for 4 years, we would love him even more than we already do. And similarly if he chose the 4 year North offer, nobody would begrudge him in the slightest.

Eternal credit to him for finding a way in the last couple of months this season when he looked almost gone mid season. His size and lack of burst pace were being exposed pretty ruthlessly by the oppo players and coaches, but he overcame and endured to become a really good player late in the season. As MJP articulated, it is amazing for a 167cm player who doesn't have quick wheels to carve out such an outstanding long-term career. Where he plays moving forward I don't know for sure - he remains an elite ball user and decision-maker, and he reads the play as well as anyone. Could he run-with against the inside mid types like a Lachie Neale and hurt them the other way?

I'd really miss Caleb. A great club man.

[Grantysghost]

1st and a pick swap?
Sounds right to me.

[Grantysghost]

Swap F1 & F2 and be done with. It’s not that huge a difference.

What they fail to mention is Richmond will have a Freo pick before and Smith would be a decent get in the teens to speed up their rebuild and give them a PR win. Also GWS are wanting to package their term picks up to get a Saints pick, say 8. Saints can use 7, trade 8, use 15 and use 16 on Smith before Geelong have a chance. That’s a huge result - Battle for Pick 15 & BS. Bring in Macrae as a friendly face with Cordy there too.

It’s a huge risk Geelong run. But let them and their surrogates run this tripe.

Sam just needs to sit this one to the last minute. Let the draft order change, as it will, and the chances he makes 17 by the ND are slim to none.
Problem is the player just says I'm not playing for anyone but Geelong.

Clubs won't risk having a disgruntled player on their books.

He's getting to the Cats one way or another.

[bulldogtragic]

Problem is the player just says I'm not playing for anyone but Geelong.

Clubs won't risk having a disgruntled player on their books.

He's getting to the Cats one way or another.

It’s a free market. He can say what he wants. The most certain way to achieve it is to trade. But 17 on its own isn’t going to work. Let’s just see what happens with over a week to go.

[mjp]

Clubs won't risk having a disgruntled player on their books.


Ross Lyon might.

[GVGjr]

I'm really trying my best not to unleash my inner Twodogs thoughts about why we shouldn't fold on trading Bailey Smith. Pick 17 isn't a fair outcome but if Geelong want him they'll need to offer more and some creative suggestions by BT could well be the ones that unlock the deal.

[Grantysghost]

Issue is players nominating teams that have nothing to give us.

The system is awfully broken.

[bornadog]

Ross Lyon might.
Yes he is looking for mids

[bulldogtragic]

I'm really trying my best not to unleash my inner Twodogs thoughts about why we shouldn't fold on trading Bailey Smith. Pick 17 isn't a fair outcome but if Geelong want him they'll need to offer more and some creative suggestions by BT could well be the ones that unlock the deal.

On top of Pick 17:

1. F1 for F2

Daylight

2. Swap 48 for 38 & F2


Honestly, the F1/F2 option is still a steal. Two picks likely 20+ for Smith & 35-38. I really think that’s got to be the minimum. Pick 17 alone is not worth it.

[kickit2Koly]

Not sure the draft threat is much of a threat anymore.When was the last time a player went to the draft and didn’t get to their desired club? Nick Stevens is the last I remember and that was 20 years ago.

[Grantysghost]

Ross Lyon might.
The new Trevor Barker?

[Grantysghost]

I'm really trying my best not to unleash my inner Twodogs thoughts about why we shouldn't fold on trading Bailey Smith. Pick 17 isn't a fair outcome but if Geelong want him they'll need to offer more and some creative suggestions by BT could well be the ones that unlock the deal.
G I think I speak for all of us here in the woof family when I say, please unleash! I want a rant of epic proportions. It's not healthy to keep it all bottled up anyway.

[jazzadogs]

I love how it's the "natural draft order", "free market" determining his value...except for the fact that "Paul Connors manages him - you wouldn't even be able to get a seat at the table with Bailey Smith" so it is not a free market at all. It's still the same bulls*** market we've been going to for the past 20 years.

[Mofra]

Not sure the draft threat is much of a threat anymore.When was the last time a player went to the draft and didn?t get to their desired club? Nick Stevens is the last I remember and that was 20 years ago.
There have been players sit-out a season though (e.g. Cam McCarthy) and if Baz was selected by one of Richmond's 500 first round picks, we might find out how much football vs social media means to him.

[ledge]

Can we really complain about the draft rules when we have used them to get JUH , Darcy , Croft , West , Libber . Boyd.
Let’s face it we have done extremely well and our list is pretty healthy due to it.
Smith didn’t play this year and we made finals.
We will do ok in this draft , trust Mr Power.

[mjp]

Honestly, the F1/F2 option is still a steal. Two picks likely 20+ for Smith & 35-38. I really think that?s got to be the minimum. Pick 17 alone is not worth it.

So...what's the solution then?

Get hold of a stick - trade the farm for pick 13 (GC) and just say to Geelong "You reckon no-one will take Bailey Smith before your pick...well, just watch us?".

That's not going to happen.

The commentary around this whole thing really sucks right now:

- "Bailey Smith is out of contract so the Bulldogs have to suck it".

- "Jackson Macrae has 3-years to go but is old and could hardly get a game so the Bulldogs have to suck it".

I know Power isn't listening/influenced by all of the noise but at the same time it would really be nice to have a win here...somehow even the new clubs - EVEN Gold Coast who can't wi - seem more highly thought of than us (or at least get the benefit of sympathy)...

Hating this period more than ever rn.

[mighty_west]

More than happy for Caleb to stay, i'm backing him to get his form back and play a role for us, as for Macrae, tough one, i guess a bit like Daniel is he really a lock best 22 player for us now? I believe Daniel can get back there not sure about Jacko with the likes of Ed, Sanders and co coming into the midfield, so if he isn't in our best 22, i wonder if the club told him to look around or that his game time would be limited in his exit meeting? therefor especially with his juicy contract i'm not sure we can ask the world for him, i'd be exploring a possible swap of say our 3rd for their 2nd round selection.

As for Smith, he's uncontracted therefor our hands are tied somewhat, you hear people say contracts aren't worth the paper they've signed on these days etc however, it gives the player security and the club an advantage in making a deal so unfortunately we are not in that position, i think it was Mark Bickley saying on Trade Radio that Baz is worth closer to pick 10 rather than pick 17 and he's probably about right, so we take their 1st round pick and either their 2nd round or future 2nd or swap our 4th for their 2nd, then try and make those two picks the Suns pick 12 (which is what Baz is possibly worth).

Macrae and pick 47 to Saints, Pick 27 to Dogs (unders? overs?)
Smith and future 4th for Pick 17 and 38 (unders? overs?)

Our draft hand could be (before free agency etc etc) picks 17, 27, 35, 38

Or try to Gain Suns pick 12 for 17 and 27, therefor end up with 12, 35, 38

[FrediKanoute]

Problem is the player just says I'm not playing for anyone but Geelong.

Clubs won't risk having a disgruntled player on their books.

He's getting to the Cats one way or another.

Yeah, but given Smith has spent a year sitting out with injury, would he do this? No player wants to sit out a year let alone two.

[bulldogtragic]

So...what's the solution then?

Get hold of a stick - trade the farm for pick 13 (GC) and just say to Geelong "You reckon no-one will take Bailey Smith before your pick...well, just watch us?".

That's not going to happen.

The commentary around this whole thing really sucks right now:

- "Bailey Smith is out of contract so the Bulldogs have to suck it".

- "Jackson Macrae has 3-years to go but is old and could hardly get a game so the Bulldogs have to suck it".

I know Power isn't listening/influenced by all of the noise but at the same time it would really be nice to have a win here...somehow even the new clubs - EVEN Gold Coast who can't wi - seem more highly thought of than us (or at least get the benefit of sympathy)...

Hating this period more than ever rn.

I think we will get more as I think Power will extract it. I also think Power has the ability to take the sum of the parts of various trades and future picks to make the whole period work for us. How much more he specifically gets from Mackie I don’t know. It’s the media narrative that’s as equally frustrating as BS recent behaviour. I’m going to wait to see what happens before making any conclusions. 17 alone is too far unders and I think Power can get more so I want to see what that is.

[bulldogtragic]

Wednesday AM Update

Garcia still not signed, even with third year added
Macrae for 47 if Saints pay full salary. Higher pick probably if we contribute salary.
Daniel wants our blessing. Up to North to convince us, or he stays.
Geelong not wanting to swap F1/F2. Media reporting softening that they swap our 3rd for their 2nd. It’s about how much extra they add.
XOH looks completely out of the race.
Pick 13 looks completely out of the race.

This is all about finishing the mini rebuild on the run with a good draft hand and stockpiling salary cap space.

[hujsh]

Having a decent draft year, unimpacted by F/S or academy bids, might not be the worst thing. There are two more "uncompromised" (or more accurately less compromised to the point that the first round doesn't go out to pick 50) draft years before the Tassie team comes in. Then it's three years of Tassie Compensation, Free Agency nonsense (though wouldn't surprise me if they fix that just in time for a new team), Northern Academy picks and father sons.


The AFL’s draft plan, the report says, would see four or five first-round picks given to Tasmania in the 2027, 2028 and 2029 national drafts.

[Axe Man]

DOGS, NORTH WAIT ON DANIEL CALL (https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/trade-hq/afl-trade-news-live-updates-and-news-from-day-3-of-afl-trade-period/live-coverage/620eddadaf9ed19f8bcce22a3cc0cdf2)

Jay Clark

Western Bulldogs? playmaker Caleb Daniel is still considering a lucrative offer to reinvigorate his career at North Melbourne.

The premiership star discussed the potential move with family and friends back home in South Australia over the weekend and was in talks on Monday with his manager Marty Pask.

The Kangaroos are keen to add Daniel?s precision kicking skills for more polish in the back half and could involve pick 25 in a deal to satisfy the Bulldogs for the 28-year-old.

It would be a tempting second-round selection for the Dogs, who don?t have a first-round pick in this year?s draft but could yet snare number 17 from the Cats for Bailey Smith.

The Saints are also keen on Jack Macrae but are only willing to give up a late pick, such as 47, if they pay all of his salary at Moorabbin.

Daniel would net the Dogs a bigger draft bounty if he elects for a fresh start after a 10-year stint at the Bulldogs including a best-and-fairest in 2020.

The utility enjoyed a strong finish to the season, gathering an average 24 touches in his last three matches of the 2024 season.

The Dogs are unlikely to have any certainty over Smith until the last day of the trade period as the Cats and Dogs stand firm on their demands.

[azabob]

I think we will get more as I think Power will extract it. I also think Power has the ability to take the sum of the parts of various trades and future picks to make the whole period work for us. How much more he specifically gets from Mackie I don’t know. It’s the media narrative that’s as equally frustrating as BS recent behaviour. I’m going to wait to see what happens before making any conclusions. 17 alone is too far unders and I think Power can get more so I want to see what that is.

BT the bigger problem is Oliver is still in play.

I raised this over the weekend by holding out until deadline day nothing is stopping Mackie splitting their current first round pick and or trading it too Melbourne.
The whole Brisbane / Dunkley pick split scenario is in play.

[bulldogtragic]

BT the bigger problem is Oliver is still in play.

I raised this over the weekend by holding out until deadline day nothing is stopping Mackie splitting their current first round pick and or trading it too Melbourne.
The whole Brisbane / Dunkley pick split scenario is in play.

I’m just not too worried. They want him and they know they need to increase the offer. They’d likely use the F1 on Oliver. If they have to put up a player or get creative they can. Smith & Oliver is a great return for them irrespective of the fine details. So let’s just see what they come up with. Pissing us off isn’t going to help them and I think they know that.

[hujsh]

The Kangaroos are keen to add Daniel?s precision kicking skills for more polish in the back half and could involve pick 25 in a deal to satisfy the Bulldogs for the 28-year-old.
So no necessarily 25 outright but it's involved and probably fair for someone in and out of the best 22 this year




The Saints are also keen on Jack Macrae but are only willing to give up a late pick, such as 47, if they pay all of his salary at Moorabbin.



Actually ridiculous, paying his entire salary alone would be worth more than a late pick lol.

[Rocco Jones]

Actually ridiculous, paying his entire salary alone would be worth more than a late pick lol.

If we believe we have a plan we can execute with the cap space, a complete salary dump would be a massive W (assuming we are correct in him being only a fringe player in our set up but that's another discussion point).

Feels like us and the Saints are both struggling to land big fish and have cap space so higher picks a much bigger priority than freeing up the cap space.

[hujsh]

If we believe we have a plan we can execute with the cap space, a complete salary dump would be a massive W (assuming we are correct in him being only a fringe player in our set up but that's another discussion point).

Feels like us and the Saints are both struggling to land big fish and have cap space so higher picks a much bigger priority than freeing up the cap space.

I mean, I can get behind that to some extent, but paying the entirety of his salary for 40-whatever it ends up being is pretty out there as a suggestion and not even worth mentioning.

[Rocco Jones]

I mean, I can get behind that to some extent, but paying the entirety of his salary for 40-whatever it ends up being is pretty out there as a suggestion and not even worth mentioning.

In terms of us or them? Yeah, I'd only want us to pay a decent chunk if we got a pick inside 30, which I don't think will happen.

I get the feeling:
- both clubs are okay with cap space
- Saints obviously want Macrae more than we do
- we are both posturing for the better pick

Give how we seem to value Macrae and him wanting out, Saints paying his entire salary + getting a pick in the 40s seems to make sense (and probably a W for us).

[jeemak]

I think we will get more as I think Power will extract it. I also think Power has the ability to take the sum of the parts of various trades and future picks to make the whole period work for us. How much more he specifically gets from Mackie I don?t know. It?s the media narrative that?s as equally frustrating as BS recent behaviour. I?m going to wait to see what happens before making any conclusions. 17 alone is too far unders and I think Power can get more so I want to see what that is.

I've been saying this since the Lake trade. Looking at the period through the frame of winning or getting bent over on isolated deals is the type of shit Dodoro does and it's detrimental to list management. You have to look at two to three trade periods and treat them holistically to meet list improvement requirements.

I think Power does this reasonably well.

[hujsh]

Young Bulldog stays in the Kennel despite Swans' late swoop (https://www.afl.com.au/news/1242004/western-bulldogs-midfielder-riley-garcia-signs-new-deal-despite-sydney-swans-late-swoop)

Garcia signs 3 year deal. Swans expressed interest in the last fortnight.

[Happy Days]

Good shit. Now pick him every week.

[josie]

Young Bulldog stays in the Kennel despite Swans' late swoop (https://www.afl.com.au/news/1242004/western-bulldogs-midfielder-riley-garcia-signs-new-deal-despite-sydney-swans-late-swoop)

Garcia signs 3 year deal. Swans expressed interest in the last fortnight.

Good news. He has some elite inside mid skills. I think he’ll improve further & justify the 3 year offer & his decision to stay a bulldog.

[Grantysghost]

young bulldog stays in the kennel despite swans' late swoop (https://www.afl.com.au/news/1242004/western-bulldogs-midfielder-riley-garcia-signs-new-deal-despite-sydney-swans-late-swoop)

garcia signs 3 year deal. Swans expressed interest in the last fortnight.

sweet!

[Scraggers]

sweet!

No … not him

[bornadog]

Good News on Garcia

[Axe Man]

sweet!

Dude!

[Grantysghost]

Dude!

https://i.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExNnNlOTQyZWI2NjM1NjI2d2hpZWFoeHlreGtwMjZza Xl6YWdidDJ6cCZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZfYnlfaWQmY3Q9Zw/gtYaab8vCMWU8/giphy.gif

[bulldogsthru&thru]

Good to see there was a decent amount of interest. Especially from Sydney following a grand final loss. Maybe they want him so they can whinge about free kicks some more. Garcia always seems to get a tough run with the umps.

[The Underdog]

Young Bulldog stays in the Kennel despite Swans' late swoop (https://www.afl.com.au/news/1242004/western-bulldogs-midfielder-riley-garcia-signs-new-deal-despite-sydney-swans-late-swoop)

Garcia signs 3 year deal. Swans expressed interest in the last fortnight.

Give me a minute, trying to find a negative spin to put on this.

[EasternWest]

Good shit. Now pick him every week.

What this guy said.


Give me a minute, trying to find a negative spin to put on this.

He's got a shit mustache

[Grantysghost]

No … not him

Isn't there a story where Bevo was in the airport boarding line and JS was next in line after a young lady and Bevo turned and said "Gday Sweetie".

[Sedat]

Young Bulldog stays in the Kennel despite Swans' late swoop (https://www.afl.com.au/news/1242004/western-bulldogs-midfielder-riley-garcia-signs-new-deal-despite-sydney-swans-late-swoop)

Garcia signs 3 year deal. Swans expressed interest in the last fortnight.
I'm low key quite impressed by the Swans and their covert operation, working under cover of darkness on their trade targets without the media catching on. They haven't been this invisible since Grand Final day.

[Axe Man]

Wasn't this previously reported as a 4 year offer causing much consternation around here? Three years sounds much more palatable.


Xavier O'Halloran remains a trade target for the Bulldogs and has been offered a three-year contract to move from Greater Western Sydney, but the Giants are determined to retain the contracted midfielder. ? Josh Gabelich

[hujsh]

Wasn't this previously reported as a 4 year offer causing much consternation around here? Three years sounds much more palatable.

Possibly a 3 year contract extension?

[azabob]

Mitch Cleary reporting JJ has signed for one year.

[jeemak]

I'm low key quite impressed by the Swans and their covert operation, working under cover of darkness on their trade targets without the media catching on. They haven't been this invisible since Grand Final day.

Given they're so well informed it must just be an oversight that they didn't pick up on Sydney's significant interest over a two week period.

[whythelongface]

Great news about Garcia. Assume his management team upped the ante regarding the three year deal. Happy with that considering we signed Harmes for three and are offering XOH three years. Great opportunity for the lad to cement his place in the midfield

[G-Mo77]

I'm happy he's staying on and comfortable with 3 years. Like whythelongface said. We gave 3 years to James bloody Harmes why can't we do the same within? Now we just have to play him.

[Rocco Jones]

Now where do we play him? I am obsessed with this but I hope that if he gets dropped back to VFL, he plays a role that is similar to the one asked for him at AFL level.

[Grantysghost]

I'm happy he's staying on and comfortable with 3 years. Like whythelongface said. We gave 3 years to James bloody Harmes why can't we do the same within? Now we just have to play him.
And McNeil! Where was his 3 :)

[jeemak]

Now where do we play him? I am obsessed with this but I hope that if he gets dropped back to VFL, he plays a role that is similar to the one asked for him at AFL level.

In twelve games he couldn't crack the top twenty in our B&F, so I guess the thing for him is just getting games wherever he can doing the best he can.

He's not going to crack the midfield and his competition that had more opportunities either polled poorly in the high half forward role or didn't get that time in the midfield themselves.

This is a mercy signing for us and him. Depth only, we don't actually rate him. Up to him to prove us wrong.

As for playing in that role when in the twos, it just won't happen. It's better to win twos games than not.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

No secret I like Garcia. I want him to take over from Libba, and as much as I love Tom, that would be good for our side if it could happen.

[bulldogtragic]

Kane Cornes with something semi intelligent...

Hawks were after Smith. They have pick 14. They should draft him at 14 (currently) if Geelong & Dogs can?t do a deal. That?s a real risk for Geelong.

I know we focus on our risk. But Geelong, BS & Connors have some risk too. And I wouldn?t be surprised if Saints swap 8 for 15 & 16 and use 16 on Smith. Richmond might look at him with a teens pick too to offset getting too many kids - maybe the 14 if Hawks give that for Barrass and WCE give it to Richmond for Baker. Collingwood might get 13 and if they miss Houston, maybe his best mate Daicos convinces the club and him to go there too.

I think it?s about simply how much more Geelong will cough up. Connor?s will be earning his 20% in the next week. I think it gets done as they?ve clearly shown they want him and he?s been behaving like the deal is done. He?s gone from our club that much is true, but he?s not at the Taxpayers Stadium yet. So let?s see what the extra is. I?m pretty calm that although it will take a while to get done, but we will get something extra that gets us across the line. If not, like Cornes says, there?s a fair chance he doesn?t get what he wants.

[Axe Man]

Kane Cornes with something semi intelligent...

Hawks were after Smith. They have pick 14. They should draft him at 14 (currently) if Geelong & Dogs can?t do a deal. That?s a real risk for Geelong.

I know we focus on our risk. But Geelong, BS & Connors have some risk too. And I wouldn?t be surprised if Saints swap 8 for 15 & 16 and use 16 on Smith. Richmond might look at him with a teens pick too to offset getting too many kids - maybe the 14 if Hawks give that for Barrass and WCE give it to Richmond for Baker. Collingwood might get 13 and if they miss Houston, maybe his best mate Daicos convinces the club and him to go there too.

I think it?s about simply how much more Geelong will cough up. Connor?s will be earning his 20% in the next week. I think it gets done as they?ve clearly shown they want him and he?s been behaving like the deal is done. He?s gone from our club that much is true, but he?s not at the Taxpayers Stadium yet. So let?s see what the extra is. I?m pretty calm that although it will take a while to get done, but we will get something extra that gets us across the line. If not, like Cornes says, there?s a fair chance he doesn?t get what he wants.

The bolded bit - Hawks won't have 14.

[bulldogtragic]

Hawks will be handing over pick 14 to West Coast for Barrass.

That’s the semi intelligent bit. He should’ve followed the thought out. It will get to Richmond who might be looking at it live at Pick 17 after bids. Maybe they prefer Smith over a kid at 17 with all their other first rounders.

Collingwood at 13 (15-16) if they miss Houston after chasing him might pull the trigger too. His best mate and business partner is there after all.

[JanLorMill]

Taxpayers Stadium yet.
You mean Sedat Park

[GVGjr]

Kane Cornes with something semi intelligent...

Hawks were after Smith. They have pick 14. They should draft him at 14 (currently) if Geelong & Dogs can?t do a deal. That?s a real risk for Geelong.



Will the Hawks having that pick when the Barrass deal gets done?

[bulldogtragic]

Will the Hawks having that pick when the Barrass deal gets done?

Yep, on traded to Richmond for Baker. It will be Pick 17 after bids and Richmond should absolutely grab him while still using picks 1, 6, 10, 18 & 20 on kids.

[EasternWest]

You mean Sedat Park

Wait so repetitive jokes are ok provided you're in on them?

[JanLorMill]

Wait so repetitive jokes are ok provided you're in on them?
Huh?

[josie]

Yep, on traded to Richmond for Baker. It will be Pick 17 after bids and Richmond should absolutely grab him while still using picks 1, 6, 10, 18 & 20 on kids.

Wow, that’s one helluva draft haul. Should be the makings of a tiger premiership in 5+ years.

[bornadog]

Wow, that’s one helluva draft haul. Should be the makings of a tiger premiership in 5+ years.

If they get the draft right

[hujsh]

Being reported that Macrae might be one that goes to the end of trade week.Waiting to see what happens with Smith and Daniel as to whether we hold onto him (makes sense with St.Kilda not really offering anything in exchange apart from taking his salary)


Jack Macrae's hopes of getting to St Kilda could come down to the final day of the trade period, according to AFL.com.au's Josh Gabelich.


As reported in Inside Trading on Wednesday, (https://www.afl.com.au/news/1241739) the Western Bulldogs and Saints are yet to discuss a proposed move for Macrae, who requested a trade last month.


With Bailey Smith set to depart the Whitten Oval and Caleb Daniel being courted by North Melbourne, the Bulldogs could opt to hold onto Macrae, who is contracted for another three seasons.

"I feel like this one will go down to the wire on deadline day, so it will be a nervous wait for him," Gabelich said this morning.

Gabelich believes the Bulldogs will be hoping to get St Kilda's pick 27 in the deal, but may have to settle for the Saints' pick 47 instead.

[Axe Man]

Being reported that Macrae might be one that goes to the end of trade week.Waiting to see what happens with Smith and Daniel as to whether we hold onto him (makes sense with St.Kilda not really offering anything in exchange apart from taking his salary)

A 10 day trade "week" and all our deals will be done at 7:25pm next Wednesday. To paraphrase Green Day, wake me up when trade week ends.

[bulldogsthru&thru]

Being reported that Macrae might be one that goes to the end of trade week.Waiting to see what happens with Smith and Daniel as to whether we hold onto him (makes sense with St.Kilda not really offering anything in exchange apart from taking his salary)

Urgh. We don't have to settle for anything. He's contracted ffs.

[bornadog]

A 10 day trade "week" and all our deals will be done at 7:25pm next Wednesday. To paraphrase Green Day, wake me up when trade week ends.

These clubs make offers to players who then commit to them but won't discuss a deal. Agree the whole system stinks

[bulldogtragic]

A 10 day trade "week" and all our deals will be done at 7:25pm next Wednesday. To paraphrase Green Day, wake me up when trade week ends.

Twomey reckons all our potential deals are next Wednesday jobs.

Yay.

[GVGjr]

These clubs make offers to players who then commit to them but won't discuss a deal. Agree the whole system stinks

Flag their intent, offer terms to the player and then try and rip off one of the clubs. It's broken.

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

Flag their intent, offer terms to the player and then try and rip off one of the clubs. It's broken.

Well at some stage is the club prepared to publicly address this, because I am very afraid that what Geelong are laying down here will soon be the routine way big clubs secure big talent without having to pay, fair market value for those younger stars, not yet available to them via Free Agency.

It's a rigged game and I could see JUH being very much the next cab off the rank via this kind of approach, if he's not already being prepped by his management team for this.

[hujsh]

Well at some stage is the club prepared to publicly address this, because I am very afraid that what Geelong are laying down here will soon be the routine way big clubs secure big talent without having to pay, fair market value for those younger stars, not yet available to them via Free Agency.

It's a rigged game and I could see JUH being very much the next cab off the rank via this kind of approach, if he's not already being prepped by his management team for this.

They kind of did it already to Collingwood with Henry

[angelopetraglia]

100%. The system needs to change. It is being gamed by Geelong in the Henry and now the Smith trades as prime examples. The smaller clubs are getting absolutely shafted. If a player wants to be traded prior to being a free agent, they should be forced into whatever club offers the best deal albeit with the ability to put a price on their head.

The player has way too much power. You should only earn that power when you are a free agent. How this has played out with Bailey Smith, what is the difference if he was a free agent? Basically zero. Because the Cats have us by balls and can do as they please really.

I would love vegenece against Geelong. I hate them. There is a famous story in how in how Steve Jobs handled this type of behaviour when Apple was a beast and had leverage. Gee whiz I wish we had some leverage to hurt them. We should target their best young talent and pay overs out of spite. Stuff them.

https://media.licdn.com/dms/image/v2/D4E22AQFiheuufOSDhw/feedshare-shrink_800/feedshare-shrink_800/0/1713733682772?e=1731542400&v=beta&t=XBwRsnkcdiPohcqDjU1H1O5pupMUTRSJvIOc9_9ZTPc

[comrade]

100%. The system needs to change. It is being gamed by Geelong in the Henry and now the Smith trades as prime examples. The smaller clubs are getting absolutely shafted. If a player wants to be traded prior to being a free agent, they should be forced into whatever club offers the best deal albeit with the ability to put a price on their head.

The player has way too much power. You should only earn that power when you are a free agent. How this has played out with Bailey Smith, what is the difference if he was a free agent? Basically zero. Because the Cats have us by balls and can do as they please really.

I would love vegenece against Geelong. I hate them. There is a famous story in how in how Steve Jobs handled this type of behaviour when Apple was a beast and had leverage. Gee whiz I wish we had some leverage to hurt them. We should target their best young talent and pay overs out of spite. Stuff them.

https://media.licdn.com/dms/image/v2/D4E22AQFiheuufOSDhw/feedshare-shrink_800/feedshare-shrink_800/0/1713733682772?e=1731542400&v=beta&t=XBwRsnkcdiPohcqDjU1H1O5pupMUTRSJvIOc9_9ZTPc

We can?t pay their players more than Cotton On and other Geelong dick riders pay them under the table. If we came up with an offer for Ollie Dempsey, some local whale with a real estate portfolio will just chuck him a coastal property and it?s game over for us. The game is rigged.

[hujsh]

We can?t pay their players more than Cotton On and other Geelong dick riders pay them under the table. If we came up with an offer for Ollie Dempsey, some local whale with a real estate portfolio will just chuck him a coastal property and it?s game over for us. The game is rigged.

We are adobe in this power structure

[comrade]

We are adobe in this power structure

Yep, nothing makes that clearer than being forced to sign Riley Garcia for 3 years just to keep him.

[Rocket Science]

Might be time we encourage Mission to offer Butters a lifetime supply of free flatbreads of choice ...

[Scraggers]

Yep, nothing makes that clearer than being forced to sign Riley Garcia for 3 years just to keep him.

You don't think we should have re-signed Sonny for 3?

[EasternWest]

Might be time we encourage Mission to offer Butters a lifetime supply of free flatbreads of choice ...

Can't make jokes about Butters any more. The minister for humour will swoop.

[Grantysghost]

You don't think we should have re-signed Sonny for 3?
He's gone from not playing to a three year deal.

I think in reality considering his standing with the MC, one was the likely scenario.

I thought two was pretty generous.

I really like him but he hasn't set the world on fire.

[EasternWest]

You don't think we should have re-signed Sonny for 3?

I think we definitely should have signed him, I think the way the three years came about is a farce.

[jazzadogs]

I think we definitely should have signed him, I think the way the three years came about is a farce.

Did you disagree with the two year offer, or the alleged timing of it?

I think we should have offered one or two years earlier, but if we had brought in Peatling and XOH we might have seen Garcia as expendable. Once Peatling was gone we made sure we kept Garcia, and offered an additional year to match/beat competing offers.

[EasternWest]

Did you disagree with the two year offer, or the alleged timing of it?

I think we should have offered one or two years earlier, but if we had brought in Peatling and XOH we might have seen Garcia as expendable. Once Peatling was gone we made sure we kept Garcia, and offered an additional year to match/beat competing offers.

I think it looks ridiculous that we offered him two years but upped it in panic mode.

If he was worth offering three years to, just offer him that.

I dunno, I see the sense in what you're saying I just think it's on the nose.

[whythelongface]

I think it looks ridiculous that we offered him two years but upped it in panic mode.

If he was worth offering three years to, just offer him that.

I dunno, I see the sense in what you're saying I just think it's on the nose.

Was it panic mode though or was it more negotiating from Garcia?s management? He really wants to stay but has a three year offer fr?m club x thus match the offer and he will stay. To me it is good business from both parties - we lowballed it with our offer, probably knowing we had wiggle room and were able to counter the offer.

Imagine the flak we would have copped if we lost Garcia over a choice between 2 and 3 years. Not sure of the dollars but assume similar. To me this was good work by the club.

[EasternWest]

Was it panic mode though or was it more negotiating from Garcia?s management? He really wants to stay but has a three year offer fr?m club x thus match the offer and he will stay. To me it is good business from both parties - we lowballed it with our offer, probably knowing we had wiggle room and were able to counter the offer.

Imagine the flak we would have copped if we lost Garcia over a choice between 2 and 3 years. Not sure of the dollars but assume similar. To me this was good work by the club.

I'm sorry I don't respond well to reasonable counterpoints.

The only solution is nets.

[jeemak]

I'm sorry don't respond well to reasonable counterpoints.

The only solution is nets.

First nets of the trade period? Seems to have taken a while......

[westdog54]

Is there a nuclear option available to us when it comes to Bailey Smith?

Suppose a deal doesn't get done. He's bound for the PSD

Other clubs apparently won't take him without taking to him first. That's fair. His management will warn other clubs off. That's their job.

But there's a club that wants to him on their list, has an existing relationship with him and can accommodate his contact demands. And more importantly, could have a PSD pick before the cats.

Us.

What's to stop us putting out a statement saying that were prepared to walk him to the PSD if Geelong doesn't make a fair offer, and remind the football world that our selection would fall before Geelong's, and that we would be prepared to use it and deal with the fallout, adding that we are confident we have the systems and personnel in place to manage Bailey's mental health needs.

They can either call our bluff or accommodate us. Ball in their court.

[EasternWest]

First nets of the trade period? Seems to have taken a while......

There's been little real networthy activity, but whythelongface presented a good argument that I couldn't scornfully dismiss or deride. You of all people understand there's only one resolution then.

[jeemak]

Is there a nuclear option available to us when it comes to Bailey Smith?

Suppose a deal doesn't get done. He's bound for the PSD

Other clubs apparently won't take him without taking to him first. That's fair. His management will warn other clubs off. That's their job.

But there's a club that wants to him on their list, has an existing relationship with him and can accommodate his contact demands. And more importantly, could have a PSD pick before the cats.

Us.

What's to stop us putting out a statement saying that were prepared to walk him to the PSD if Geelong doesn't make a fair offer, and remind the football world that our selection would fall before Geelong's, and that we would be prepared to use it and deal with the fallout, adding that we are confident we have the systems and personnel in place to manage Bailey's mental health needs.

They can either call our bluff or accommodate us. Ball in their court.

He'll just nominate for the ND.

[jeemak]

There's been little real networthy activity, but whythelongface presented a good argument that I couldn't scornfully dismiss or deride. You of all people understand there's only one resolution then.

If anyone deserves a netting it's WTLF. Even when he's agreeing with me his logic disgusts.

[hujsh]

Is there a nuclear option available to us when it comes to Bailey Smith?

Suppose a deal doesn't get done. He's bound for the PSD

Other clubs apparently won't take him without taking to him first. That's fair. His management will warn other clubs off. That's their job.

But there's a club that wants to him on their list, has an existing relationship with him and can accommodate his contact demands. And more importantly, could have a PSD pick before the cats.

Us.

What's to stop us putting out a statement saying that were prepared to walk him to the PSD if Geelong doesn't make a fair offer, and remind the football world that our selection would fall before Geelong's, and that we would be prepared to use it and deal with the fallout, adding that we are confident we have the systems and personnel in place to manage Bailey's mental health needs.

They can either call our bluff or accommodate us. Ball in their court.

Are you prepared to trade into the first round of the ND and use that pick on Smith? It'd basically mean giving up pick 20 odd and whatever we re-draft him to keep him here 2 more years. It also kind of sounds like we maybe aren't toooooo upset to see him leave, not that we want him gone, but with Richards coming along and his various diva antics it's maybe not the worst thing either to see the back of him.

However if I was Richmond, I bet he'd like playing on the G and having that big supporter base in actual Melbourne rather than Hickton. Maybe worth pick 14 odd. They managed Dusty

[bulldogtragic]

I think we all need to accept a suitable deal gets done. Remember the Dunkley negotiations got so bad to board put out a statement backing Power to send Dunks to the PSD.

Nothing coming from anyone at the club. As I’ve said, even at BS & F2 for 17 & F1 Geelong still steal him. But then we’ve got three firsts in our pocket with a chance to buy Essendon Pick 9 and supercharge our rebuild on the fly with good kids from the last few years.

I think Sam will get something like the best deal and we will be rid of him forever which is also a benefit that can’t be undersold. It will be fine.

[bulldogtragic]

Trade Radio:

"Not sure on that one (Caleb Daniel). We certainly have interest, he is contracted. I have spoken with the Dogs but there is not much appetite to trade him out." - Brady Rawlings



(North also rejected paying Pick 25 for Parker…)

[bulldogtragic]

What could North offer to increase our appetite. We haven’t said no…

[azabob]

What could North offer to increase our appetite. We haven’t said no…

What have they offered though?

[bulldogtragic]

What have they offered though?

Not sure, but you’d think 25 is a point of reference.

[jazzadogs]

Trade Radio:

"Not sure on that one (Caleb Daniel). We certainly have interest, he is contracted. I have spoken with the Dogs but there is not much appetite to trade him out." - Brady Rawlings



(North also rejected paying Pick 25 for Parker…)

So they should have. 32 next year, Swans basically going to retire him if he didn't leave.

Caleb is 4 years younger than Parker. 25 is an appropriate trade IF we were prepared to let him go.

[bulldogtragic]

So they should have. 32 next year, Swans basically going to retire him if he didn't leave.

Caleb is 4 years younger than Parker. 25 is an appropriate trade IF we were prepared to let him go.

I tend to agree. It might be closer to 30 at the point of pick. I wonder if we were being greedy like a swap of later picks next year within the same round (F3 or F4). If we need a lot of points the following year, they might be good pick trade bait. But that’s being on the greedier side.

That said North are still coming and we haven’t said no.

[bulldogsthru&thru]

Trade Radio:

"Not sure on that one (Caleb Daniel). We certainly have interest, he is contracted. I have spoken with the Dogs but there is not much appetite to trade him out." - Brady Rawlings



(North also rejected paying Pick 25 for Parker…)

Fu****g hell! Has Dodoro leaving created some vacuum of idiotic trade proposals or something!?

This year seems to be the worst. These list managers thinking they're macho by offering or demanding stupid unders/overs. What a waste of time this is. Although the gold coast suns do exist so maybe managers are just testing the stupid of clubs to see what they can get away with.

[westdog54]

He'll just nominate for the ND.

At least then Geelong aren't getting him for "Free".

[bulldogtragic]

Sam Power drawing out an offer???

KANGAS HIT DANIEL ROADBLOCK

NORTH Melbourne has held preliminary discussions with the Western Bulldogs around the potential of a Caleb Daniel trade, though the Kangas believe a move for the contracted defender remains unlikely.

Daniel is reluctant to officially request a trade to Arden Street unless a suitable agreement can be reached between the two clubs, but has interest in getting to North Melbourne by Wednesday night's deadline.

However, the Kangaroos have said their initial chats with Bulldogs officials "didn't get far" and reiterated their belief that Daniel ? who is contracted through until 2026 ? would be retained at the Whitten Oval.

Speaking to AFL.com.au's Gettable on Friday, North Melbourne list manager Brady Rawlings said the Bulldogs hadn't yet given the Kangas an indication of what they would accept for Daniel in a trade.

"Not sure on that one," Rawlings said of a potential Daniel deal.

"We certainly have interest. (But) he's a contracted player and he's contracted for another couple of years.

"I've had a chat with the Dogs and it doesn't seem like they have much appetite at all to trade him out. We'll keep in touch, but at the end of the day he's contracted for two more years and the Dogs want to keep him." ? Riley Beveridge

[GVGjr]

I don't understand why we just don't give everyone the message that it's a hard no...if that is actually our position.
Are we trying to unlock a significant overs offer or to get Daniel to plead for a trade? We either need to close the door on the speculation or get a deal done.

[bulldogtragic]

I don't understand why we just don't give everyone the message that it's a hard no...if that is actually our position.
Are we trying to unlock a significant overs offer or to get Daniel to plead for a trade? We either need to close the door on the speculation or get a deal done.

I think Power is clearly telling North, you want him, you convinced him with a four year offer, you tell us what you’re willing to cough up because if you offend us we won’t spend any more time here. I like the strategy. It’s all on North to get him, and they can for the right price. Maybe the offer more than just 25.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

I don't understand why we just don't give everyone the message that it's a hard no...if that is actually our position.
Are we trying to unlock a significant overs offer or to get Daniel to plead for a trade? We either need to close the door on the speculation or get a deal done.

Likely we have set a high price, North unwilling to budge at this stage, therefore it sits where it does. I think North would offer their second round for Daniel, they need RESULTS and adding Daniel helps that.

For us, I still don't like trading both Macrae and Daniel. Macraes value is low (A pick in the 40s would be lucky to play as many games as Macrae will in the next 3 years) and Daniel could still play another 4 years.

Not sure I buy us needing salary cap relief when we were in the conversation for Barass and Houston, so what's the point of us trading BOTH of them?

[G-Mo77]

What is the rumour we're offering our F1 for GC's 2024 1st Rounder. So we're cleaning up the mess we made last year by creating another mess. Surely we are not that stupid?

[hujsh]

What is the rumour we're offering our F1 for GC's 2024 1st Rounder. So we're cleaning up the mess we made last year by creating another mess. Surely we are not that stupid?

GC have better offers for that

[G-Mo77]

GC have better offers for that

Good

[jeemak]

I think Power is clearly telling North, you want him, you convinced him with a four year offer, you tell us what you?re willing to cough up because if you offend us we won?t spend any more time here. I like the strategy. It?s all on North to get him, and they can for the right price. Maybe the offer more than just 25.

As I said earlier, their intention to contract him for four years suggests he's at minimum pick 25 and close to a first rounder. 25 and a swap here and there would probably do it, but there's no need to rush.

[bulldogtragic]

As I said earlier, their intention to contract him for four years suggests he's at minimum pick 25 and close to a first rounder. 25 and a swap here and there would probably do it, but there's no need to rush.

Yep, dead right you are. Let them work for it. 25 and ideally swaps of F3 & F4 would have me pretty happy. We are going to use a fair few picks next year so if our F3 & F4 were good ones that would be ideal.

[bulldogtragic]

Ralphy:

Collingwood being squeezed at both ends on Houston deal. Clubs including Sydney, Demons, Dogs coming from the clouds for the Suns pick 13 as the Pies size it up. Power wants 13, 23 and Richards for Houston. The Roos waiting in the wings

[bulldogtragic]

Morris:

Now it's a four-way race for the @GoldCoastSUNS Pick 13...

Melb: F1 & 2nd rounder (this year)
Syd: 19 & 22
Dogs: F1
Coll: Noble & F1 for 13 & 23

The @sydneyswans are in a similar position to GC. They have elite 2025 academy talent, so are more interested in next year's draft than other clubs.

The Suns won't go to the draft with this selection

[Eastdog]

Young Bulldog stays in the Kennel despite Swans' late swoop (https://www.afl.com.au/news/1242004/western-bulldogs-midfielder-riley-garcia-signs-new-deal-despite-sydney-swans-late-swoop)

Garcia signs 3 year deal. Swans expressed interest in the last fortnight.

Happy with this. I hope he gets more opportunity at AFL level next year. Lots of good signs and can improve further.

Really good at VFL level.

[FrediKanoute]

I think Power is clearly telling North, you want him, you convinced him with a four year offer, you tell us what you?re willing to cough up because if you offend us we won?t spend any more time here. I like the strategy. It?s all on North to get him, and they can for the right price. Maybe the offer more than just 25.

Me too. It's a good strategy. We have said all along he is a required player, but that we would listen to offers if it worked for us and him. We are, we just aren't hearing anything we like. North need experienced players and Caleb fits that bill. His ball use is top knotch and he would allow them to move Kercher into the middle. He is a good get.