The Brisbane Lions have received positive media reviews for their performance across the Trade Period, with the Club looking to finish its work with a strong result from the NAB Draft next month.
The Club has been consistent in stating its Trade/Draft strategy as maximising Draft picks inside the top 25, while adding young talent in the age group that will make up the next Premiership team.
Media analysis says the Club has stayed true to that strategy and has set itself up well for a Draft brimming with midfield talent, while also banking a first round pick and third round pick for the 2017 Draft, which will include a strong crop of Hyundai Help For Kids Lions Academy graduates.
afl.com.au
Win: More prime draft picks, both this year and next year, and a serviceable key defender
Lose: Slide one spot in the first-round draft order, a mature half-back, a future fourth-round pick
Nathan Schmook’s verdict: The Lions have a new coach and a new football manager and wanted to go to the NAB AFL Draft with the best selections they could find. They did that brilliantly and will have time under Chris Fagan to build without the pressure Justin Leppitsch faced.
Rating: A-
Peter Ryan’s verdict: It was really all about improving their Draft Order and they have done that. Jack Frost has shored up their defence a bit.
Rating: B-
Fox Footy
Champion Data says: “Daniel Merrett conceded 64 goals last year, which was a new Champion Data record, so hopefully Jack Frost can bring that 131 points conceded per game average down a little bit.”
Chris Pelchen says: “In simple terms, they were very good. They went into this trade period aiming to get more selections in the draft, which is the right thing to do. It’s not sexy and it won’t grab headlines, but I applaud them for what they’re doing — they’ve got four picks inside 22 and they’ve got an extra first-round selection next year.”
Grade: 7.5/10
Trade Radio
Terry Wallace verdict: Have a strong set of Draft picks plus they have picked up a first round pick for next year as well. Frost will help them. The Lions are very close to being in the “B’s” … but it’s going to take time to rebuild”
Grade: C+
Herald Sun
A quiet October usually spells a win for the Lions, given the airport-style speedwalk which usually rolls out of the Gabba. Dangled captain Tom Rockliff but nobody nibbled and rolled in more draft gold for his best mate Pearce Hanley. Next mission — re-sign goalkicker Josh Schache
The Age
Bottom line: After a dismal 2016, Brisbane needed to make big changes. Brisbane's youngsters need senior players to set a better example. Lions list manager Peter Schwab this month said Pearce Hanley was suffering "losers fatigue", so it was wise to trade him away. Brisbane finished the draft period with a healthy list of draft picks to begin rebuilding
Watch our Trade Wrap:
