Small Moves
Premiership Player
I thought I might put my fantasy brain to work and make a list of a bunch of players I'll certainly be looking into for season 2014. The trade week has provided a few hits so far, which is always good. This thread will be updated daily with new players. Post suggestions for me to look into below.
DEFENCE
Jack Grimes: 2013 wasn't the best year for Grimes. A combination of injury and copping a hiding every week damaged his once premium DT scoring potential. Averaged 91 last year and there's no reason why he can't get back up there under Paul Roos.
Priority: MEDIUM.
Beau Waters: Another year plagued by injuries. If history repeats itself, Waters should play upwards of 15 or so games next year. In his All-Australian year of 2012, he was classed as a premium - repeatedly showing his capability to produce huge scores, capping off the season with an average of 92. Only played 7 games in 2013 at an average of 86, but he should be back in business in 2014.
Priority: MEDIUM.
Brett Goodes: After a stellar debut year, the mature age rookie should definitely be taken into account for season 2014. Averaged 79 in 2013, however he unfortunately broke his arm towards the end of the season, ending a hot streak of 100 and 97 against quality teams.
Priority: MEDIUM.
Brandon Ellis: He finally had a break out year in 2013 after several games as the sub early into the year. Averaged 79 in 2013 as a result, but he managed to output several big scores (128, 155, 112, 102, 119, 143) as he gained more midfield time. Expect him to get more of a run in the middle next year, he's a definite lock if he retains DEF status.
Priority: HIGH.
MIDFIELD
Marc Murphy: After a season interrupted by injury, the Carlton skipper only managed an average of 85. Once known as a super premium player, Murphy will be looking to take his game to the next level in season 2014 as Carlton strengthen their list. After averaging 103, 100, 112 and 101 in the past 4 seasons, there's no reason why he can't jump back up to that sort of output next season.
Priority: HIGH.
Jack Steven: A relatively new player who had an outstanding year in a weak St. Kilda side. Averaged 98 in 2013, with his highest scoring game being 148 points (47 disposals v. Fremantle). He's a gun, however the departure of Ben McEvoy worries me when it comes to feeding the ball to the mids. He'll be a super premo in years to come, however I'm still not convinced until I see some genuine improvement from St. Kilda as a whole. Still one to be watched throughout the year, just in case my theory is incorrect.
Priority: MEDIUM.
Dion Prestia: One of the rising stars in the quickly forming Gold Coast juggernaut. He averaged 96 in a breakout year in 2013, amassing scores of 156, 137 and 133 in the process. With the softer draw this year, Gold Coast should be one of the better teams in the bottom 10. It's almost a no brainer to start out the season with him, he'll be a great mid for years to come.
Priority: HIGH.
Ryan Bastinac: Another young, up and coming midfielder. His DT game is quickly on the improve, averaging 85 this year. His biggest problem seems to be consistency, racking up scores like 136 and 132, but often putting out sub-60 scores. I see him improving next year, hopefully bringing some consistency into his game, resulting in a higher average of around 95+. I certainly won't be starting with him, but he'll be one to watch.
Priority: LOW.
RUCK
Ben McEvoy: Traded to the Hawks, should take up the #1 ruck spot. Averaged 75 in a below average team this year, which should increase back up to his 2011 average of 90. His price will be down as a result of this years performance, making him a bargain for a second ruck spot.
Priority: MEDIUM.
Shane Mumford: Traded to GWS. He was down number wise this year (still pumped out some huge scores) however his new environment could change that. After averaging 91 and 82 over the last two years, I see no reason why he can't jump back into the 90's as he slots into the number one ruck spot at GWS. Good option for a second ruck, however there's probably some better players out there.
Priority: LOW.
FORWARD
Nic Naitanui: Struggled with injuries and soreness throughout most of the year which damaged his fantasy output. In his good games, he easily smashed out scores of over 100, which can be expected when he's healthy. It's expected that he'll retain his FWD/RUC status, and he'll be an important link in West Coast's team after a focus on recovery through the pre-season.
Priority: MEDIUM.
Dale Thomas: Traded to the Blues. Averaged 75 over 5 games in 2013 after being struck with a series of ankle injuries. Averaged 95, 103 and 93 over the past three years and should retain his MID/FWD DPP status.
Priority: HIGH.
Lance Franklin: Traded to Sydney. Averaged in excess of 101 over the past two years, unfortunately 2013 wasn't his best season. He'll be cheap as chips next year and should play a huge role in a powerful Swans side chasing a premiership.
Priority: HIGH.
Colin Sylvia: Averaged 95, 96 and 91 over 2009, 2010 and 2011. Averaged 81 in 2013 so his price will be down. He was very inconsistent back at Melbourne, and who knows what sort of role and how much game time he'll get under Ross Lyon? This makes for a risky choice. Should keep his FWD/MID status.
Priority: LOW.
