Adelaide
Taylor Walker – Forward - $299,500
We all know the story of WALKER in 2013 – out for the count with a knee reco after 5 games at an average of 69 (two of which were scores in the 90s). He averaged 100 in 2012, but it’s a big risk given he’s expected to miss a fair chunk at the start of the season and his mobility may not be the same when he does get back on the park. Definitely one to watch when he finally returns though.
Dayne ZORKO – Mid/Forward - $447,200
A somewhat controversial choice, but ZORKO may fall into the category of a unique choice in 2014 after a drop in form in 2013 saw his SC average plummet from 100 in 2012 to just 83 in 2013. With a number of younger midfielders departing the Lions, ZORKO will have to bear a lot of responsibility on his young shoulders, but is he up to it? That price tag might just force you to look elsewhere.
Carlton
Dale THOMAS – Mid - $341,800
THOMAS will be one everyone considers at some point, but will he be worth it? He only averaged 79 from 5 games in 2013 before his leg injury, but showed he still has what it takes with a huge 150 pt match against St Kilda in Rd 6. He is very tempting at that price, but his lack of dual position status really hurts. With previous averages of 1009 in 20111 and 96 in 2012, he is certainly one to monitor.
Collingwood
Patrick KARNEZIS – Mid/Forward - $229,800
Making the move from the Lions to the Pies, KARNEZIS has dual positioning and is cheap, but that’s where the good news ends. Only 3 games in 2013, and an average of 47 in those matches despite burning in the NAB Cup, and now he has moved to a team with one of the better midfields going around. Could surprise, but it’s a big gamble.
Essendon
Joe DANIHER – Forward - $272,900
Touted as a superstar by the Bombers, DANIHER only played five matches in 2013 at an average of 50, however his round 12 game against the Suns where he scored 98 was exciting and perhaps a sign of things to come? With Crameri and Gumbleton now gone from the Bombers, a lot rests on DANIHER’s shoulders, and he should get lots more game time. Could be worth the investment at that price.