What about Pav has got him to almost 300 games well before any slime player, considering the many stars they had during the 90s, and having about 8 years head start on us? All round durability and fabulousness? Better training facilities? Better recovery/rehab regimes? The fact that the Dockers are just better full stop? Both teams travel roughly once a fortnight, so what has been the difference?
Just quietly, I wouldn't be surprised if lack of finals helped a little, just allowing the body that bit of extra time to get ready for the next year. Despite starting off as a baby giraffe, Cox has now become their most capped player and I don't think it's a coincidence that he's done it during probably their most unsuccessful period.