Author: James

Round Table: Port Adelaide

Now that the excitement of AFLX is over and done with (and I bet you can’t wait for it to return next preseason), let’s get back into planning for the real deal. Port Adelaide is up next.

So for each coach, we pitched a few categories to see who we’re all keeping an eye on this preseason – a player to lock in now, an expected breakout contender, the best cash cow, an interesting left-field option, and a sneaky name to file away for a value draft pick.

These are the Port Adelaide players on each Panelist’s watchlist right now:

The Lock:

Jimmy: Robbie Gray in SuperCoach (only) is probably the closest to a premium starting option that I can find.

MJ: If I were investing big cash on any Port player it’d be Justin Westhoff who possesses the most valuable DPP possible R/F. I wrote about the benefits of ‘The Hoff’ recently in the 50 Most Relevant.

Rids: Robbie Gray. Not many to choose from I this category. At least we know Gray will score very well if he gets midfield minutes.

Tim: Robbie Gray. Fwd status make him hard to overlook in SuperCoach.

Fox: Justin Westhoff a fantastic dpp option to float between forward and ruck, and no reason to suggest he doesn’t continue to be used in that fantasy friendly roaming role in 2019, throw in durability and he’s the perfect Huckleberry pick

The Breakout

Jimmy: I’m a big Ryan Burton fan. Hopefully Port play him to his strengths and he finds himself at home quickly in the new colours.

MJ: Now is the time for Sam Powell-Pepper to step up and deliver consistently and be the bull the Power recruited him to be. He’s shown he can physically impact a contest; now he needs to use his physicality to influence the result of the game.

Rids: Riley Bonner. Kid took massive strides in 2018 and is now clear best 22. Has great disposal and generally makes very solid decisions. With Polec moving on there will be more opportunities for a smooth moving good decision making player up on a wing.

Tim: Jarrod Lienert Finished well and yet hasn’t really been talked up. Not sure he’ll break out in fantasy terms but could be seen to break out in footy terms.

Fox: Ryan Burton not sure playing defence was/is his strong suit, a move to Port might just be the tonic to free the shackles and turn those 60’s back into 80’s

The Cash Cow

Jimmy: Joe Atley fits the bill as a highly-rated youngster with a couple of preseasons under the belt. Must be due a solid run of opportunity soon.

MJ: He was one of Port’s best afield in the rest under 23’s clash against the Crows, but Will Drew (MID/FWD) is doing everything right to get a shot at a round one spot. If captain Ollie Wines isn’t back to full health, I’d be locking him in.

Rids: Joe Atley. Was an emergency multiple times in 2018. Port should be looking at giving a few kids a chance to show their wares in 2019 and I reckon Atley will be one.

Tim: Connor Rozee. Def status, top 5 pick, ball winner – sounds good.

Fox: Conner Rozee played SANFL seniors last year and is highly valued in multiple positions, be sure to put a ring around Rozee

The Unique

Jimmy: Tom Rockliff currently has single-figure % ownership in both DreamTream and SuperCoach. Can he get anywhere near back to his best? Not a bad bet against others at similar price points.

MJ: If I were in charge of Port Adelaide I’d make several changes, but one of the first ones would be the movement of former captain Travis Boak back into the midfield. He looked lost as a forward far too often, and if Port is to be any shot at a top 8 spot, then Boak must move in and take some of the midfield minutes of former players Jared Polec and Chad Wingard. Watch his JLT community series, but if he is based as a midfielder primarily then he could easily push into the top 6-10 forward-eligible players for the season.

Rids: Justin Westhoff. Gets ruck DPP for 2019. With a few questions surrounding some of the top rucks, could be a very unique choice. Not sure how Lycett, Ryder, Westhoff, Dixon and Marshall all play in the same team. JLT watchlist.

Tim: Justin Westhoff Ruck/fwd status, impressive beard, aged well over 30 – unique premium scorer could well be his lot again.

Fox: Jack Watts has to be the most UNIQUE number 1 draft pick ever, both on and off the field, don’t pick him, go the guy you actually know

The Draft Smokey

Jimmy: Trent McKenzie has been out of favour recently, but the Cannon has averaged over 80 in a season before and now has the handy weapon of being able to kick past the centre circle from opposition behinds. Will go undrafted in most leagues so there’s worse options for your last pick in the draft.

MJ: It’s always dangerous to draft and anticipate a DPP adjustment, but if the preseason match simulations are accurate it appears Brad Ebert is set to play most forward in 2019. At his current level an 80 something midfielder is very ‘run of the mill’ but as a forward, that’s a valuable on-field asset.

Rids: Ollie Wines. A few years ago some people were talking Wines up as a better fantasy prospect than Danger. Hasn’t really taken the next step however. But if he can find some cheap ball he does have the potential to take it to the next level. Has been a noticeable slider the last couple of years in drafts and expect that to continue this year.

Tim: I’ll double down withJarrod Lienert here as well.

Fox: Tom Rockliff dropped a tackle and a handful of disposals with a career that is slowly heading south, maybe with Wines inactive early the door of opportunity to reinvigorate himself opens, well worth a punt, he’s surely better than an 82 point mid.

So! Who makes the cut for you in each category? Have your say on Facebook,  Twitter or Instagram

Round Table: North Melbourne

North Melbourne completely overhauled their midfield over summer and finally landed some big / quality / reasonable / different names with that warchest. Whether they got the outside run they were deliberately targeting or just whoever was willing to come to Arden Street is a debate for another day, but in any case it certainly makes assessing their collective fantasy credentials a little more interesting.

So for each coach, we pitched a few categories to see who we’re all keeping an eye on this preseason – a player to lock in now, an expected breakout contender, the best cash cow, an interesting left-field option, and a sneaky name to file away for a value draft pick.

These are the North Melbourne players on each Panelist’s watchlist right now:

The Lock:

Jimmy: The closest I can find to a potential lock is Aaron Hall. If you believe that North recruited him to play the outside game in which he thrived for a period on the Gold Coast, he is a genuine option to become a top ten midfielder in DreamTeam and Fantasy.

MJ: With the news out over the past few days that confirm Melbourne will be looking to play two rucks it opens up the discussion point for Todd Goldstein as SuperCoach option.

Rids: Jack Ziebell. Not many to choose from but Ziebell has done well previously with the right role. Keep an eye on him as it might only take one mid injury for Ziebell to end up back in the mix.C

Tim: No premium locks for North at all in my book.

Fox: Todd Goldstein is looking fitter with a loss of 5 plus kilos over the break and came home strongly last year with 12 of his last 14 games being Super Coach tons

The Breakout

Jimmy: Jasper Pittard has shown before that he can average around the 90pt mark for extended periods. Look to see how North use him during the JLT in the transition from defence.

MJ: It feels unfair to place him here given Aaron Hall has averaged 90+ in SuperCoach and 100 in AFLFantasy, but given his price point he deserves to be here. If he’s allowed to play attacking and unaccountable footy, he’ll bounce back towards his personal best numbers.

Rids: Jy Simpkin. I have no doubt Simpkin increases all output in 2019 and will spend longer stints in the midfield. Not really fantasy relevant though.

Tim: Luke Davies-Uniacke. This is a pure guess, on the assumption he finds his under 18s form and break out.

Fox: Shaun Atley.  We’ve waited for 8 years now, surely he’s due to smash out an average of 70 plus in his 9th.

The Cash Cow

Jimmy: Luke Davies-Uniake was highly rated as a junior and now has a couple of preseasons under his belt. Surely makes at least a little cash from his starting price point.

MJ: The Crows were keen on him and forced the Roos to pay more than they’d hoped at the draft, but Tarryn Thomas will be a modern-day utility and add significant flexibility to a side that’s traditionally very one dimensional.

Rids: Tarryn Thomas. Kid is an absolute stud. Mid only with premium price tag however are the downers. Not sure North will be a decent breeding paddock for cows in 2019.

Tim: Tarryn Thomas. Well he’s their top 10 pick and they clearly like him and have said he could play anywhere (mid, back or fwd) so seems a good chance to get games. Sees himself as ball winner.

Fox: Tarryn Thomas is as good as any prospective kanga cash cow

The Unique

Jimmy: Shaun Higgins averaged about 105 in SuperCoach last season and now has some reasonable midfield support around him. Just a thought.

MJ: Pretty much any Kangaroos player you want. Barely anyone is selecting players from this team.

Rids: Todd Goldstein. Proven old dinosaur that will benefit from no more Preuss pressure. Could easily become a top 2 ruck again in 2019.

Tim: Todd Goldstein. I’m really not sure who North’s backup ruckman is for 2019. Aka Goldy will play every game as a solo ruckman.

Fox: Aaron Hall picked a good team and should be happy to be on the outside of guys like Cunnington, Higgins and Jacobs, averaged 105 DT in 2016 down to 71 in 2018, huge upside

The Draft Smokey

Jimmy: We’ve been saying all preseason that it looks like the new rules will assist key lead-up forwards with decent endurance, strong marking, and reasonable supply. Ben Brown would appear to tick all of those boxes.

MJ: A few years ago Luke McDonald was all the rage in drafts but a less than flattering 2018 has seen him drift out of many people’s mindsets. As a late round crack he could just be the smokey that lands you a big league victory.

Rids: Dom Tyson. Really solid pick up by the Roos. I reckon Tyson will go 90+ in 2019. Will be there very late in most drafts.

Tim: Aaron Hall. In the right team and role he has proven the ability to score consistently big. Unsure whether North will allow him that but hey, he has big upside if so.

Fox: Jack Ziebell after a very average year he might get on the end of some decent delivery with the likes of Hall, Bev (Polec) and Higgins, surely becomes a 90+ forward in 2019

So! Who makes the cut for you in each category? Have your say on Facebook,  Twitter or Instagram

Round Table: Greater Western Sydney

Once again the Giants have lost a handful of quality players to raids from opposition list managers and yet have somehow still put together a team that should be capable of contending for the flag again – and full of players that are highly relevant for your fantasy teams across all the formats.

So for each coach, we pitched a few categories to see who we’re all keeping an eye on this preseason – a player to lock in now, an expected breakout contender, the best cash cow, an interesting left-field option, and a sneaky name to file away for a value draft pick.

These are the GWS Giants on each Panelist’s watchlist right now:

The Lock:

Jimmy: Stephen Coniglio was one of the highest averaging players in the comp last year and should achieve that mantle again.

MJ: Even with an impending move higher up the ground, and back to the wing, I don’t see how Lachie Whitfield isn’t in the conversation as one of the top defensive options this year.

Rids: Josh Kelly. No need to say why. Just lock him in.

Tim: Josh Kelly. When fully fit he’s a chance to be a top 3 mid.

Fox: Tobias Greene by no means a favourite but locked in for 2019, priced around 67 is a steal even if he does miss 2-3 for erratic behaviour

The Breakout

Jimmy: For something different, keep an eye on Jeremy Finlayson. Kid has wheels and a beautiful kick.

MJ: He landed at #45 in my 50 Most Relevant, but I love the potential of Jacob Hopper. He’s a bull at the contest and will elevate his game to the next level and make a spot inside the GWS midfield his own.

Rids: Jacob Hopper. Ready to explode in 2019. For those who have persisted in keeper leagues, time is now for him to become one of the top mids at the Giants.

Tim: Tim Taranto. Tossed up between him and Hopper but just love the way Taranto goes about it. Like Zach Merrett, he just looks like a footballer. With Shiel gone it wouldn’t surprise at all should he rise again.

Fox: Jacob Hopper definite 4th year breakout opportunity with a few Giants moved out

The Cash Cow

Jimmy: Jye Caldwell. The kid is all class and while he may not play round one, he will play at some point and you’ll want him in your team by the time he hits the bubble.

MJ: I’m a big fan of what Jye Caldwell has shown he can deliver. If the medical team can get his body right, this kid will be a fantasy beast.

Rids: Jackson Hately is ready for the seniors. Will play more fwd than mid in 2019. Comes with a premium but might still be worth the price tag.

Tim: Shane Mumford. Cheap ruck, has potential here.

Fox: Jackson Hately tall inside mid who played SANFL last year, should get a run of games at some stage

The Unique

Jimmy: Heath Shaw is getting a ridiculously low amount of attention from the various fantasy communities this preseason. High risk, high reward.

MJ: While everyone agrees Tim Taranto is a future fantasy star still a small portion of the community are prepared to select him this year. He’ll be needed to fill the void left by Dylan Shiel which I expect he’ll excel in.

Rids: Jeremy Cameron. Giants and Cameron always were too top heavy in their fwd 50. Losing Lobb and with Patton’s injury it means the 50 should be all Camerons. His averages across the formats were not terrible in a poor 2018. I expect him to increase all by double figures in 2019.

Tim: Callan Ward. Hard to pick a rolled gold unique but Ward is usually pretty solid.

Fox: Jeremy Cameron potential 90 point forward, should be on the end of more ball movement in 2019

The Draft Smokey

Jimmy: Many coaches will be cautious about picking Brett Deledio after his past two seasons with injury concerns, however even last year he scored multiple 110+ scores (and higher in SC) from a handful of games. Don’t expect him to play every match but he’s a very handy type to pick as a depth midfielder with that ceiling.

MJ: The new kick in rules favour a guy like Heath Shaw. While the run for D1 will happen early in your league, you could land Heater many rounds later but still get a 90+ defender.

Rids: Zac Williams/Toby Greene. Keep an eye on both these guys. Both when in form could be close to d1 and/or f1 options in a season team. Beong able to grab them at d2/f2 is still a very very worthwhile exercise.

Tim: Matt de Boer. Was quite a good scorer in draft leagues last year and retains fwd status. Has had no hype and will surely slide in drafts, potentially quite late.

Fox: Tom Sheridan could have gone in the unique section as only a handful of astute fantasy coaches would/could/should recognise his potential. Jason McCartney has played down the coup, but this versatile running machine will be earmarked for wing and midfield roles, expect a .05 ownership and pick him up as one of your last draft picks

So! Who makes the cut for you in each category? Have your say on Facebook,  Twitter or Instagram

Round Table: Geelong

The Cats have delivered us a swathe of amazing Fantasy, DreamTeam & SuperCoach options over recent history and the trend appears set to continue with many relevant names again for season 2019.

So for each coach, we pitched a few categories to see who we’re all keeping an eye on this preseason – a player to lock in now, an expected breakout contender, the best cash cow, an interesting left-field option, and a sneaky name to file away for a value draft pick.

These are the Geelong players on each Panelist’s watchlist right now:

The Lock:

Jimmy: Gary Ablett in SuperCoach. As we spoke about with Fyfe the other day, any concerns about recurring injury means you either start him or don’t pick him at all for the year. He’s a walk-up start in SC and underpriced in that format.

MJ: Even without the addition of forward status Patrick Dangerfield loomed as another great option in 2019. Now, dare I say it, he’s a must-have.

Rids: Patrick Dangerfield. DPP means lock. N

Tim: Patrick Dangerfield. Fwd status, nuff said

Fox: Patrick Dangerfield with forward status added, hard to beat that for a lock.

The Breakout

Jimmy: Both Tom Stewart and Zac Tuohy already averaged a respectable 80 (AF/DT) to 85 (SC) last year but I expect both to nudge their averages towards premium territory with the new kick-in/play-on rule.

MJ: We saw glimpses of it from Brandan Parfitt last year, but I think he can go up another gear in 2019. Four tons from his 18 games last year and already the Geelong coaching staff have indicated a desire to give him even greater midfield role.

Rids: Nakia Cockatoo.  Needs to stay on the park though. Kid could be anything but is injured way too often.

Tim: Mark O’Connor. Cats seem to like him and Scarlett been talking him up as a part of their backline now. Will be cheap.

Fox: Tough to pick, 2nd year prospect Charlie Constable the young copper was close in 2018, expect him to play a few roles as he squeezes into that 22 early this year.

The Cash Cow

Jimmy: It’s easy to forget how highly the industry rated Charlie Constable at this time last year. Has another preseason under the belt and while games won’t come easy, he should get ample opportunity at some stage.

MJ: Last year was the ruck merry go round with the Cats using multiple options including Zac Smith, Rhys Stanley and Ryan Abbott. They drafted Darcy Fort with pick #65 and if given the opportunity could be a great R3 for us.

Rids: Nathan Kreuger. Constable is the obvious guy here but no idea where he fits in. Cats chased Kreuger hard so would assume it was to be play senior footy in a specific role. JLT watchlist.

Tim: Mark O’Connor as per above

Fox: Charlie Constable again, will be out on the beat in 2019

The Unique

Jimmy: Mitch Duncan has had two very good seasons in the shadows of bigger named stars. His endurance will only become a bigger asset under the new rule structures and surely goes 100+ again.

MJ: Nobody is talking about Tom Hawkins this preseason, and especially in SuperCoach I don’t see why you couldn’t go there. Coming off a career-best 101 average and 8 of his last 13 games were tons. The new 6-6-6 centre bounce rules along with forwards able to use hands in the back in marking contests only aid his cause.

Rids: Sam Menegola. Can you select 2 Geelong fwds? How about 3? Will be interesting to see how many teams line up with Danger, Menegola and/or Kelly/Dahlhaus round 23.

Tim: Joel Selwood is solid every year, especially in Supercoach.

Fox: Tim Kelly surprised us all in 2018, adjusted remarkably well to AFL, every chance to build on that before likely heading home in 2020

The Draft Smokey

Jimmy: Somehow Tom Hawkins still carries a poor reputation in fantasy/draft circles despite regularly putting up big scores and always slides further than he should. Load up when the opportunity presents and ride the rollercoaster. He should be good fun under the new rules.

MJ: A vital member of the Geelong backline for the past few seasons and one of the regulars to bring the ball back into play is Zach Tuohy who should gain a little scoring bump with the new rules.

Rids: Luke Dahlhaus will slide big time. Might be just what was required however. A new start at a new club. Should be able to fit into most roles the club will need him for. Not a bad punt to go 90 again.

Tim: Tom Stewart. An excellent pickup in draft and keeper leagues last year. Not a sexy pick but just got the job done almost every week and had some monster scoring patches at Kardinia Park along the way.

Fox: Gary Ablett, is this his last year, how many games will his body survive, surely picks up forward status at some stage, if he’s on the field he will score anywhere, an interesting one to gauge.

So! Who makes the cut for you in each category? Have your say on Facebook,  Twitter or Instagram

Round Table: Fremantle

The Dockers haven’t had a great time of late in the AFL but a productive off-season saw them gain some much needed role players. Is this the season they turn things back around? It’ll be fascinating to see just much much of an impact the new-look lineup can make.

Either way, there is a case to argue that Fremantle could be very relevant for the various AFL Fantasy formats. So for each coach, we pitched a few categories to see who we’re all keeping an eye on this preseason – a player to lock in now, an expected breakout contender, the best cash cow, an interesting left-field option, and a sneaky name to file away for a value draft pick.

These are the Fremantle players on each Panelist’s watchlist right now:

The Lock:

Jimmy: It’d be easy enough to nominate Fyfe but I’ve also currently got Luke Ryan locked into my SC and can’t see him going anywhere.

MJ: It feels safe, vanilla and predictable but Nat Fyfe is one of the best AFL midfielders going around. With the acquisition of some key forwards over the trade window the need for him to play as a ‘tall forward’ is gone. Added to this and the departure of their #2 midfielder in Lachie Neale means I can’t see a world where Fyfe isn’t spending an increased midfield role. The only question mark is does he play 20+ games?

Rids: Nathan Fyfe – no Neale. Freo landed 2 fwds in the trade period. What does this mean? Fyfe is no longer needed fwd for large stints. More mid time = more pts!

Tim: Nat Fyfe The guy is almost unstoppable when fit and has been a Supercoach dynamo. Very likely misses some games as always but with Neale gone, Hogan and Lobb in and Fyfe typically seeing 40%+ ownership, it’ll be dangerous to leave him out.

Fox: Nat Fyfe. SC lock, 10-20 points underpriced, a serious captain option, 3 scores over 150 in 2018 seals the deal for me, has to be seriously considered in all formats.

The Breakout

Jimmy: Matt Taberner starting to show some serious signs of his potential last season, and I suspect he will now really enjoy playing as the third lead-up tall alongside Hogan and Lobb.

MJ: Last year it was a member of the Brayshaw family that was one of the best breakouts of the year and it wouldn’t surprise me at all if the family tradition continues on with Andy Brayshaw having a stellar second season. Someone has to fill the void left by Neale, step up mini Gus!

Rids: Adam Cerra. This kid is a super talent. Reminds me so much of Pendlebury. Watch for his JLT role. He is fwd only for 2019 so one to monitor.

Tim: Adam Cerra. Brayshaw was the bigger ball winner in juniors but Cerra looked like class in 2018 and it’s unknown how Brayshaw comes back from his broken jaw.

Fox: Adam Cerra has only played the one year but looks all class, 21 games at 60 including 5 under 30 in DT, definitely gets more mid opportunity this year.

The Cash Cow

MJ: If he’s fit and named round one you can’t pass on Harley Bennell.

Jimmy: Can we trust Harley Bennell? If he can earn himself a round one berth, he becomes very hard to resist at a basement price.

Rids: Brett Bewley. This guy was drafted to play round 1. Just needs to stay on the park thru the off season.

Tim: Luke Valente. Ball winning draftee. Enough said!

Fox: Brett Bewey looks the type Ross Lyon is going to talk about in his pressers, went 25 disposals in the VFL and has running ability.

The Unique

Jimmy: Reece Conca. Ok, hear me out. Brought straight into the leadership group in a team needing midfield experience. Generally scored around 80ish most weeks as a part-time midfielder at Richmond and I wonder if he hasn’t yet seen the best of him yet.

MJ: I’m all in on Luke Ryan this year if he is allowed to maintain his role as a designated kick-in option. Last year he took over 40% of the sides kick-ins but rarely ever played on meaning just on this scoring column alone he should jump substantially. Already averaged 90 as a unique SuperCoach defender last year and I think he’s going 100+ this year.

Rids: Jesse Hogan needs to be monitored for 2 reasons. The new rules of 666 might mean Hogan could have more of a lead up role than in previous seasons. The second reason is mid time. Not sure he wont get rotated into the mids at Freo when required. If he does his output could easily be top 10 as a fwd.

Tim: David Mundy is listed as a forward and scores well every year.

Fox: Jessie Hogan had an inconsistent 2018, priced at 90, if he gets a run through the midfield and some consistency going he’s easily a 100 point plus forward.

The Draft Smokey

Jimmy: Brett Bewley. The Tim Kelly that Fremantle has when Fremantle can’t have Tim Kelly. Will be available towards the end of most drafts, so make sure to load up.

MJ: I’d be going the late draft handcuff on Aaron Sandilands and Sean Darcy. Both score well without the other playing and can certainly pump out a 80+ average safely if not more.

Rids: Connor Blakely might slide in a few drafts. He is def one to keep an eye on. No Docherty means that Blakely could easily be in the top few for defenders for 2019.

Tim: Luke Ryan. On the up as a composed, ball winning defender.

Fox: Andrew Brayshaw was pretty much eased into 2018, more minutes and some natural Brayshaw development will see that 66 point average increase significantly

So! Who makes the cut for you in each category? Have your say on Facebook,  Twitter or Instagram

Round Table: Essendon

It’s a scorcher in most parts of the country today, so we finally managed to track down a few members of the panel to chat about the Bombers over a Furphy in air-conditioned comfort.

For each coach, we pitched a few categories to see who we’re all keeping an eye on this preseason – a player to lock in now, an expected breakout contender, the best cash cow, an interesting left-field option, and a sneaky name to file away for a value draft pick.

These are the Essendon players on each Panelist’s watchlist right now:

The Lock:

Jimmy: You’re paying top dollar for Devon Smith but I can’t see a world wherein he doesn’t retain status as a top 10 forward, even if he doesn’t quite average what he did again.

MJ: Injury is the only thing that will prevent Devon Smith from being a top 5 forward again. The only dilemma is he a better starting squad or upgrade target.

Rids: Zach Merrett got concussed early in the season in 2018 and took a few weeks to get back to his best. Then struggled with a tag. Still went 100+ and should improve on that in 2019.

Tim: Zach Merrett. Concussion and tags lowered his price last year but still avg’d near 110 from around R4+. Shiel also in now and other mids stepping up.

Fox: Zach Merrett. The effects of last years Round 1 concussion certainly undervalues this ball magnet.

The Breakout

Jimmy: Darcy Parish has more natural talent than most. Is this the season where he puts it all together on field?

MJ: 12 months ago one of the biggest preseason hyped players was Andrew McGrath, I think coaches went 12 months early and that 2019 we’ll see him push his average verging on 90 with some great midfield responsibilities likely.

Rids: Aaron Francis had an amazing game late in the season. Kid is ready to go massive. Keeper leagues take note.

Tim: Kyle Langford got told two years ago to go and turn himself into a big bodied mid, which he did. Started to get games on that basis last year and avg’d high 70s. Continuing to work on fitness and mid role so would expect a step up again. And oh yeah, he’s still listed as a forward.

Fox: Joseph Daniher. AA in 2017 and durable for 4 years prior to 2018, if the bodies right in 2019 expect a fair increase from last years output

The Cash Cow

MJ: While he may need injuries to get games I wouldn’t be shocked if Zac Clarke worked his way into the sides best 22. He’s mobile, can clunk a grab up forward and more than useful as a ruck.

Jimmy: Zac Clarke. I’m not sure he steps straight in as #1 ruck over Bellchambers but he will get games this year at some point. Load up when he does.

Rids: Joe Daniher. Jump on after he has played 2 games. Will only get better with games as well

Tim: Joe Daniher. If fit, speaks for himself.

Fox: Jordan Ridley is speculative, but if a defensive spot opens up, expect Rids to get a run of games to add to the 3 he got in 2018, adding to that Rids and Francis appear to have some good chemistry together

The Unique

Jimmy: Dyson Heppell. Everyone is frothing about Merrett & Smith while Heppell is going quietly under the radar. A safe premium choice with no real downside at all.

MJ: The recruitment of Shiel should only further store strengthen the midfield unit and not diminish the midfield role of Kyle Langford. 3 tons in his final 7 games and a seasonal average of 80 is positive progress for a player that retains forward status.

Rids: Michael Hurley has had a few good years now. Will benefit with the team improving around him esp in SC.

Tim: Michael Hurley has been a premium in recent years, especially in SueprCoach.

Fox: Dylan Shiel or Andy McGrath might present as value

The Draft Smokey

Jimmy: Shaun McKernan has been a whipping boy over the journey but played some decent footy and scored 3 hundreds from 9 full games last year before getting injured. There are worse options in the final rounds when looking for a bench player with a loophole-worthy ceiling.

MJ: Joe Daniher will go way later than he should, an average of 85+ across the formats is a realistic expectation.

Rids: Dylan Shiel at m5/m6 could be a massive scoop in 2019

Tim: I still really like Kyle Langford for this category, too.

Fox: Aaron Francis settled in well after a turbulent year in 2017, reads the play well and could quite easily assume the Brendan Goddard role

So! Who makes the cut for you in each category? Have your say on Facebook,  Twitter or Instagram

Round Table: Brisbane

Next on the agenda for our club-by-club discussions is the Brisbane Lions. Widely tipped to begin climbing up the ladder this season, there are many interesting options on their list for your assorted fantasy teams this year.

We gathered up a few members of the Panel and answering in isolation, pitched a few categories to see who we’re all keeping an eye on this preseason – a player to lock in now, an expected breakout contender, the best cash cow, an interesting left-field option, and a sneaky name to file away for a value draft pick.

These are the players on each Panelist’s watchlist right now:

The Lock:

Jimmy: There were only six players listed as defenders in 2019 who averaged above 90 points in RDT/AF last season. Alex Witherden finished just shy of that mark but should be a comfortable bet to finish the year amongst the top handful.

MJ: Easy selection for me here, I’m big on defender Alex Witherden averaging enough to push into the top 10. Back to back seasons averaging over 80 and has shown he’s got a big enough ceiling with multiple 120+ scores across all formats.

Rids: Lachie Neale should keep his midfield minutes so won’t go below what he has averaged the past few years. Not sure he is uber premium but he does have a huge ceiling and Zorko will attract the tag most weeks.

Tim: Alex Witherden. Hard to pick a ‘lock’ but felt this guy was already a premium and more likely to increase than decrease scoring.

Fox: They don’t call him Locky Neale for no reason, 16 SC tons in his last 18 games, only missed 2 games in 5 years and he’s a 110 point mid you want in your team

The Breakout

Jimmy: The obvious choice here is Hugh McCluggage but I’m particularly interested in watching the preseason form of Cam Rayner, Rhys Matheison and Ben Keays as well. There are a lot of quality young mids at the Lions and I’m fascinated to see which ones take the next step this season.

MJ: The loss of his DPP actually means he’ll present some potential value for owners. As a midfielder, I don’t mind selecting Hugh McLuggage who certainly is a breakout candidate and possible 90+ average across the formats.

Rids: Hugh McCluggage. This kid was a superstar through his junior days. This is the year that it should translate into AFL. He is mid only though which is a little bit of a dampener.

Tim: Hugh McCluggage. This will be popular but he just looks ready to take a step up.

Fox: Expect another double digit point increase from Hugh McCluggage, had 6 games under 60 points last year and entering into his 3rd year, a sound investment

The Cash Cow

MJ: I think he’s got to fight his way into the side but i like what I’ve seen from Cedric Cox in the handful of AFL games he’s played. He brings plenty of line breaking speed and has plenty of skills. Hopefully the coaching staff give him an extended run at it.

Jimmy: Lincoln McCarthy makes an interesting case study if he starts the season in the first 22. Priced a little higher than I’d like but his role is worth monitoring over the JLT.

Rids: Ely Smith. This kid is a ready to go big bodied mid. It will just depend on whether the Lions require another one or not as to whether he gets the games required.

Tim: Ely Smith Found this hard for Brissy so again he just seems slightly more likely than others.

Fox: Throw the blanket over any of Ely Smith, Connor McFadyen or Noah Answerth for a possible mid season cashie

The Unique

Jimmy: Can Dayne Zorko bounce back to previous form? He represents massive value on his 2018 average if you believe he can.

MJ: I’d only do this if big Oscar McInerney or Archie Smith aren’t named but it seems fantasy coaches have forgotten the safe 100+ averages we’d get from Stefan Martin if he’s the solo big man.

Rids: Alex Witherden. This kid can play. His scoring will increase as the Lions play better football. Not sure he is uber but wont be too many points in it this year. T

Tim: Stefan Martin has been scoring up and around the top rucks in all formats in recent years and won’t be highly owned.

Fox: What better way for a sun savaged Lyon to roar back into calculation than to throw him into a den with his pride. Hard to believe he averaged 123 DT after 3 rounds in 2018.

The Draft Smokey

Jimmy: Especially in keeper leagues, Eric Hipwood is one that I would love to have deep on my list this year. He is developing very nicely and will only get better as the Lions improve as a whole. Target in keepers and consider as one of your last picks in single season leagues.

MJ: He’s developing nicely, but you should be able to draft Jarrod Berry late in most drafts. Spent most of 2018 learning as a tagger what the workrate required of an elite midfielder. Don’t be shocked if the Lions coaching staff give him the freedom to hunt the ball.

Rids: Mitch Robinson just keeps scoring no matter where he plays. He will feature very late in drafts and is always good for a 80+.

Tim: Luke Hodge was ignored a lot in drafts last year but had another solid year. Lions on the improve so could be similar again.

Fox: Believe it or not Dayne Zorko, had a massive 2016-2017 campaign before getting sunk by heavy tags and poor form in 2018, in an unforgiving fantasy world he’ll be very much on the nose with some coaches in 2019, with his high ceiling it might pay to throw him an early life line, how early is the question.

So! Who makes the cut for you in each category? Have your say on Facebook,  Twitter or Instagram

Round Table: Adelaide

Let’s begin our club-by-club discussions with the Crows. No matter how you think their 2019 season will play out, there are bound to be some relevant players who you can lock away, roll the dice on breaking out, generate some cash, or pick as a left field unique option when everyone else is going vanilla. And of course, we all love a smokey pick that you can steal mid/late draft.

We gathered up a few members of the Panel and pitched each of these categories to see who we’re all keeping an eye on this preseason:

The Lock:

Jimmy: Rory Laird. He’s priced awfully high but you know what you’re getting. Lock him in.

MJ: It’s hard for me to go past Matt Crouch. He’s a picture of scoring who barely scores below 100. I’m confident he’ll average 110+ in all formats.

Rids: Brodie Smith. Needs to get through preseason with no scares but is priced perfectly to take the punt.

Tim: Matt Crouch. He’s been a ball magnet his whole career and I feel he’s slightly underpriced, plus has been very durable to date.

The Breakout

Jimmy: Jordan Galluci. The first round draft pick now has a couple of preseasons under his belt. He’s a bold pick to start but could easily jump a solid 20pts/game.

MJ: Hard to go past Wayne Milera. A move off half back last season displayed to the footy world what Crows fans have known since his draft days. That is that Wayne posses all the class, dash & poise that reminds fans of Andrew McLeod. Does Brodie Smith’s return impact his scoring? Possibly, and only 2 games last year where they played together is to small a sample size to tell.

Rids: Wayne Milera is probably the one here although it will be interesting to see the role.

Tim: Jordan Gallucci. I found it pretty hard to nail a ‘breakout’ for the Crows, but reckon Galluci might just climb into another bracket this season.

The Cash Cow

Jimmy: Brodie Smith. Comes with a nice discount and if he can stay on the park, should increase in price nicely in the first month to get within striking distance of a premium.

MJ: He’s no lock in the side, but I’m going for Shane McAdam. Crows valued him super highly and to grab him along with pick 13 for McGovern was a massive win for the club. Speaking of McGovern, his departure has created a vacancy inside forward 50 and for mine he looks like the most likely and versatile options to take the spot.

Rids: Chayce Jones will get games this year. Kid is silky smooth and can find the pill.

Tim: Chayce Jones. Crows need mids, this kid seems a good one and not a stranger to finding a bit of the ball.

The Unique

Jimmy: Rory Sloane. Priced under 90 in RDT and Fantasy but has gone at 105+ the two years prior. Can he bounce back?

MJ: It was a more than handy season for Bryce Gibbs in his debut season as a Crow, but with multiple midfield injuries Gibbs was forced to play a more inside midfield role. The return of Sloane & Crouch should free him up to get the inside & outside balance of his game back on track and as such keep his average safely into the hundreds.

Rids: Tom Lynch. Should get that link role back with the intro of the 666.

Tim: Rory Sloane feels a bit underpriced – will always have the ceiling he showed in 2017 so with Gibbs and Crouches on board he has high upside and won’t be highly owned.

The Draft Smokey

Jimmy: Brad Crouch. Didn’t play last year so won’t appear in the standard UF rankings. He’ll slide further than he should.

MJ: He isn’t a sexy pick and generally goes 2-3 rounds later than he should, but Bryce Gibbs always averages over 100 and has only missed 16 possible games during his entire career. Durable and consistent scoring, a perfect combination in drafts.

Rids: Rory Sloane. Will slide in all drafts this year. Pick him up as a m4/m5 if you can

Tim: Tom Lynch is always good for an 85-95 avg and is always a forward. Never a sexy pick but always worth his draft value.

So! Who makes the cut for you in each category? Have your say on Facebook,  Twitter or Instagram

JLT Analysis: Coming Soon

The JLT Community Series is quickly approaching and as with every year, you’ll get the best analysis right here on the Coaches Panel with articles and podcasts covering every game.

(We probably won’t bother for AFLX, if we’re honest.)

JLT form can be misleading; every year there are preseason flyers who don’t carry that form into the season proper and quiet achievers who explode once the real stuff starts. We’ll be here to guide you through who catches our attention in each game – the good the bad and the ugly – and perhaps most importantly, discuss the players who didn’t appear at all and what impact their return might have on those who did.

Stay tuned!