WHY?
Many predicted Heppell could go top 3 in the 2010 draft, and eventually he was picked up for a steal by Essendon at pick number eight.
Heppell seemed to fit in right from the start – one of those players who seemed to have plenty of time and always made the right decisions under pressure. He averaged 11 kicks, 10 handballs and almost 6 marks a game last year, making him SC gold. Starting at a mere $156,600, he ended with the juicy price-tag of $357,700 – and a SC average of 83.45 pts per game. Nice.
In a young Bombers team, Heppell seems set to be a future leader and is certainly in coach Hird’s good books. Can he improve in 2011 though?
WHY NOT?
Firstly, the price. Heppell has shot up to $452,400 this season, which is a hefty price tag for someone so young – possibly a little overpriced against the likes of Hanley, Hurn, or Mackie?
Secondly, the obvious danger with Heppell is the dreaded second- year blues. Fact or fiction, it remains something to keep in the back of your mind when thinking about selecting him in your squad.
Thirdly, that haircut. Can you really have someone in your team who looks like that? Seriously?
Dave’s Good Buy Rating:
I like Heppell. The kid is a gun, and in a young, explosive and improving Bomber lineup, I think he actually can get better and step up even more. All the preseason info has been good, with sources saying he has bulked up his somewhat light frame and is set for a huge year. Whilst he might seem a bit costly I think he will be worth the investment in 2012, and should finish with an average around the 100 pts per game to become one of the elite fantasy back men.
A big call for such a young player, but I can’t see any reason why it won’t happen – and hopefully he’ll get the buzz cut like Daisy and restore some respectability to his appearance. Get on board.