Yep, the inevitable end of season discussion that will only get sillier and sillier.
* - Was Ratts fair dinkum in saying we'll be proactive in trade week? In particular for a KP forward? Do we have the salary cap room? Is there anyone on the market half decent? (Half decent: "Better than anyone currently on our list?")
* - If there isn't room, is that an indication we'll be offloading some senior players?
Way I see it.....
We need to make 3 list changes, 2 of which are incredibly difficult. Do we instead just go the half hearted approach and trade 2 other players for our minimum of 3?
* - McLean, Carrazzo and Russell are under contract for another year * - Waite, Hampson, Austin, Bower, Setanta, Lucas are not.
Struggle to see who would be interested in McLean or Carrazzo that wouldn't involve them agreeing to move interstate in the first place. Outside of McLean calling it a day, I'd say they're both safe for another year.
Hampson, I reckon we'll struggle to accomodate, both in terms of salary demands and TOG for next year. Cut our losses and pursue a couple of young rucks (or a VFL/WAFL type?) for next year?
Waite is an interesting one. 29 next year, shocking record with injuries and suspension, and would be on a fair bit of coin. On the other hand, is far better than any other forward we're supposedly targetting. I get the feeling we'd be offering significantly reduced terms with a take it or leave it mentality. Could be a watch this space?
Bower is going to be a difficult one. Hard to believe he's only 23. On the other hand, will there be that much interest from the WA teams? Eagles' defence is rock solid, Dockers may throw a bone, if only to play McPharlin up front more often. If there's interest with a decent offer, I think we'd be silly not to consider it. Otherwise, I wouldn't be throwing him out the door to the first bidder. Essentially is in the same position that Thornton was last year, and we saw how that went this year.
Lucas I hope wants to stay. Wouldn't be throwing him away either, but if he doesn't want to be there, then hopefully clubs will offer something decent.
If we are players in trade week, I'd like to focus more on finding midfielders that are an upgrade on Robinson and Carrazzo. Either better disposal or quicker. If we land any of the following during trade week for next to nothing, I'll be very happy.
John McCarthy Dylan Roberton Simon Hogan Jarred Moore
_________________ BLUES 2010: PAV AND JUDD = FLAGS. DOING IT FOR THE LOVE OF DICK PRATT.
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