AFL FANTASY 2018 - Keepers, Bargains and Cash Cows Part 4

Hi all,

Welcome to my part 4 where I will preview some good Fantasy buys for Richmond, St Kilda, Sydney, West Coast and Western Bulldogs.

This the final part of the previews and has one bonus player I accidentally left out of Part 3.

I will do a few more (shorter) AFL Fantasy blogs between now and the end of the JLT Series.

If I get the readers, once the season kicks off I will do a weekly blog offering tips as we go.

To Recap my categories are:

Must have - contains keepers you should strongly consider building your team around or just absolute price bargains

Keepers – ones I would consider taking and if drafted would be with a view to keeping all season

Keeper Cows - No man’s land price types, neither cash cow nor elite keeper. Potential to earn some profit or even turn into elite keeper.

Cash Cows – Cheap speculative types that can make you money

Avoid like the Plague- injured, too risky types or overpriced players

*Any players not listed at all are ones I would not recommend at this stage. Some new faces will no doubt bob up
through the pre season competition

The bonus player I accidentally overlooked is from North Melbourne:

P AHERN $170k Forward/Midfielder - Cash Cow
Was a classy player in the Under 18's and a Pick 7 overall by the Giants in the 2014 Draft.
Injuries have crueled him at his time with the Giants and after 2 ACL injuries (within the space of 5 months) in 2016 he
requested a trade to back to Victoria to North Melbourne.
At the time of the trade GWS were eager to free up some salary space anyway and North were able to secure him for a ridiculous bargain pick of 69. (GWS have let some good young talent go too cheaply and this will come back to bite them one day but that's a story for another day).
Ahern is now fully fit and has completed a full pre season to date. Given North are in a rebuilding phase Ahern will not find it hard to find a place in their best 22 and he is one of the best Cash Cow opportunities for 2018 at a bargain basement price of $170k.

Will be an interesting 3 way battle for the Brownlow this year between Dusty, Danger and Fyfe

DEFENDERS
B HOULI $637k Defender - Keeper
Houli has really become an elite Defender and had his best season ever in 2017. Had an average on 91 which is great
in itself but his 2nd half of the season in particular was elite. Went over 100 7 times in his last 12 games with a high
of 131 in the Grand Final. If he goes on with that form in 2018 he will be one of the highest, if not the highest scoring Defender in AFL Fantasy.

B ELLIS $596k Defender - Keeper
Another Tiger who went up a gear in the 2nd half of the season although was quieter in the Finals series. Is a high possession winner on his day and Ellis is a good option for your Defence. Averaged 85 last season but is capable of better than that. See how he is travelling in the JLT series before making a call between him and Houli.

N VLASTUIN $464k Defender - Keeper
Former 1st round pick Vlastuin showed his best form at AFL level last season when he had a hot run from Rounds 17 through to the Qualifying final before being a bit quiet in the Prelim Final and Grand Final.
The manner in which he accumulated the ball for those 80, 90's and particularly that 107 in the Qualifying Final is food for thought. Probably a bit too pricey at $464k but is a lot more confident at the level now and might be on the verge of his best season. If he has a hot JLT series he could be worth a punt.

MIDFIELDER
T COTCHIN $673k Midfielder - Keeper
Elite Midfielder who played a huge role in the Tigers Premiership Team. Has never reached the dizzying Fantasy heights of his team mate Dusty, or of the Tom Mitchell's and Danger's of the Fantasy World but at $673k he does bring a lot of value to the table.
Had an average of 95 last season with ten 100+ games. Very consistent and you get what you pay for with Cotch.

Been unfairly maligned at times during his career but he shut up any doubters last year

S GRIGG $672k Midfielder - Keeper
Very underrated Tiger Midfielder who wins a lot of the ball and can drift Forward to take a mark.
Was running hot there for a while in 2017 when he had 5 100+ games in a 6 week period. He ended up with 10 tons for the year and a high of 153. Has averaged in the 90's the last 3 seasons so is very consistent.
The only worry I would have is despite his consistency in the home and away season he didn't have the best Finals series but fortunately that doesn't matter when it comes to AFL Fantasy.
Worth every cent of the $672k price tag and you can't go wrong with Grigg.

D PRESTIA $577k Midfielder - Keeper
Enjoyed an awesome first season at the Tigers by being part of their Premiership team and was an important cog in their Midfield. He didn't have his biggest Fantasy season but his 81 average was still OK and he will no doubt improve in his 2nd season at Tigerland.
Before last year, his last 4 seasons at the Suns included season averages of 96, 100, 95 and 92 so he is extremely good value for just $577k

J GRAHAM $450k Midfielder - Keeper Cow
The former SA under 18's captain was a highly rated junior who somehow slid all the way to the Tigers pick 53 in that 2016 Draft.
Being the SA Captain the Crows must of been aware of him and the Crows had multiple chances to grab him but overlooked him with all their early picks. Wouldn't they be regretting that now!
Graham came from nowhere to play the last 5 games of the Tigers season which included all 3 finals and a memorable performance in the Tigers Grand Final against the Crows just to really rub their nose in it.
His Grand Final consisted of 3 goals and an amazing shut down job in the 2nd half on a red hot Rory Sloane.
He had a Fantasy score of 84 twice and all 3 finals were solid games in the 60's. Graham looks to be a 200 game player in the making with strong leadership skills.
I can't see him ever being out of the Tigers best 22 now and his scoring will only improve as he gets more experience.

Win the Premiership and unearth a future star. Pretty good seasons work by the Tigers

RUCK
T NANKERVIS $612k Ruck - Keeper
Requested a trade to Richmond for greater playing opportunities and wasn't that a great decision for his career. Showed how good he can be when given the number 1 Ruck spot and has his best year to date. Averaged 87 with 4 tons and was a vital part of that premiership winning team. Will be only better in his 2nd season at Richmond so if you can't afford the premium options he will give you a good return for the $612k.

FORWARDS
J RIEWOLDT $544k Forward - Keeper
Never been a prolific Dream Team scorer but did finish the season with a strong average of 77. Can give you the odd big game but probably a bit too pricey at $544k unless you are a Tigers fan.

DUAL POSITION
J CADDY $525k Midfielder/Forward - Keeper
Left the Gold Coast a talented but inconsistent young player. Did nothing in his 2 seasons at Geelong to change that reputation and was often a scapegoat when the team performed badly.
Was traded to Richmond in the 2016 off season for pick 24 which was about the right price for where he was at.
Had the best season of his career in 2017 and was an important cog in the Tigers Premiership winning Forward line. Dream Team average of 75 so he is far from Dream Team royalty just yet but he did have a high of 142 and I think he can improve further on his average in his 2nd season at Tigerland.
$525 price tag a little steep but if he looks sharp in the JLT series he is worth consideration.

MUST HAVE:
D MARTIN $800k Midfielder - Must Have Keeper
Reigning Brownlow medalist and possibly the best player in the competition. Dusty had one of the best individual seasons in 2017 I have ever seen from a player and I grew up watching Lockett, Ablett Snr and Dunstall.
His "don't argue" move will be stuff of legend and whilst it is a team sport, there is no doubt in my mind he carried the Tigers to that first Premiership since 1980.
As for his Fantasy score well that was impressive as well.
A 114 point average, 16 tons, a high of 166 and only went under 90 three times. Given Tom Mitchell will be in every ones team, you may find yourself having to choose between Dusty or Danger which is fitting given those two would be fighting it out for number 1 player in the comp and possibly of all time.
My advice would be find a way to take them both as you don't want to come up against Dusty in your league matches.

K LAMBERT $600k Midfielder/Forward - Keeper
Had a break out season and played a big role in the Tigers flag. His first 10 rounds were up and down but his form was stunning after that. From that point he had 5 100+ games, a further 4 in the 90's and only dipped under 70 once.
Full of confidence and with almost 50 games under his belt now he is going to play a major role in the Tigers midfield this season. The fact he is a Forward in Fantasy is a huge bonus and he is terrific value at 600k.

Avoid Like the Plague:
A MILES $525k Midfielder
Was brilliant in his first season at Tigerland playing 22 games and being an important inside midfielder.
Dropped to 19 the next year and then only managed 5 games in 2017 as he fell out of favour.
He was shopped around in trade week but had no takers and will be on his last chance in 2018.
I admire his toughness around the ball but he is a touch slow and does not hurt teams with his disposal so I can't see him breaking back into a strong Premiership winning Tigers team.
$525k is a ridiculous high price given the circumstances so want to avoid.

DEFENDERS
S SAVAGE $573k Defender - Keeper
Found himself dropped early in the season and struggled to get back into the best 22. After sustaining good VFL form he managed to break back into the side in the 2nd half of the season and was a good scorer averaging 81 with a high of 112. Always been a good Fantasy scorer so makes this list based on that but to pay $573k you'd want to see him flying in the JLT series.

J WEBSTER $471k Defender - Keeper Cow
Courageous Saints Defender who would die for the cause and seems to be finding a bit more of the ball as he gets older although he is no danger of leather poisoning.
If you are after a cheap Defender I think Webster can improve on his 66 average this season as he did have 2 tons and a further 2 games in the 90's.
I think his poorer scoring days can be more attributed to the role Richo uses him in as sometimes he has a lock down assignment and others he is free in that backline cutting off opposition attacks.
Worth considering if you after a cheaper Defender.

H GODDARD $170k Defender - Cash Cow
Cousin of Brendon at the Bombers, Hugh was highly rated in his 2014 draft year and the Saints were thrilled when he
slipped through to their pick 21. Played 8 games in his debut season of 2015 but 2016 and 2017 were wiped out with injuries.
Key position height, super athletic and finally injury free so I expect Goddard will get plenty of chances this year. At the bottom price of $170k he could be a nice earner.

MIDFIELDERS
J STEELE $654k Midfielder - Keeper
Had a brilliant 1st season at the Saints after crossing from GWS. Considering he had a limited pre season due to a foot injury his 93 average was ultra impressive. 7 100+ games and only 3 under 70.
He will be even better in his 2nd season at the Saints now he has had a full pre season.
At $654k he is an elite scoring midfielder you can get at a discounted price.

Jack Steele was a brilliant trade in by the Saints

J NEWNES $621k Midfielder - Keeper
Hard at it Saints on baller who started out as a low key Back Pocket as has improved his game tremendously. Has had a solid 88 average for the last two seasons so very consistent and does have a high ceiling on his day with a high of 143 last season.
That was one of 6 tons by Newnes who will reward any owner with nice stable scoring. Will still spend a bit of time on the Half Back Flank as well so always the chance of a Dual Position Defender upgrade later which would make him very valuable.

L DUNSTAN $617k Midfielder - Keeper
Was an end of 1st round selection in the 2013 draft and played 16 games in his first season. Showed enormous potential but seemed to of stagnated in his last couple of seasons.
His first half of 2017 season looked much of the same and his inconsistency cost him his spot in the Saints best 22.
He returned to the seniors in Round 13 and played a couple of decent games before yet another down week resulted in another axing from the side.
The message from Richardson that he needs to work harder must of finally sunk in because when he returned to the team in Round 18 he was a changed man. His last 6 games of the season went 107,116,100,110,118 and 103 and he finished with an 88 point average for the season.
Is that last 6 games the real Dunstan that we are going to see from here on out? If so then he would be a steal at $617k.

K STEVENS $601k Midfielder - Keeper
High possession winning Midfielder that looks to of found a spot in the Saints best 22. Had a solid 85 average with 7 100+ games out of 15 matches played.
Should be more consistent in his 2nd season at the Saints and could be a cheaper elite scoring Midfield option.

D ARMITAGE $459k Midfielder - Keeper Cow
2017 was a write off for Armitage with injuries. Because of this you can get him for a Bargain price of $459k.
Hard to say no at that price given that wonderful 2015 season when he averaged 107. 2016 was a flat average of 86 but I suspect was playing hurt at times. Turns 30 this year so not too old and is having a full pre season.
Worth the gamble at that price.

H CLARK $258k Midfielder - Cash Cow
Taken at pick 7 in last years Draft this kid is good enough to break straight into the Saints best 22.
He was rated one of the best kicks and best decision makers in the Under 18's. He also had an averaged 26 disposals and was a smoky to go top 5.
A very clean player with the ball who doesn't mind the hard stuff either averaging 6.7 tackles a game. Keep an eye on him in the JLT series as looks a great Cash Cow option.

RUCKS
B LONGER $552k Ruck - Keeper
Had a his best season to date and finally showed why he was a top 10 pick in the 2011 draft.
Had a 78 average with 4 tons and most importantly now holds down the number 1 ruck spot at St Kilda.
Will only improve further in 2018 and he could be a nice pick up if you can't afford the premium Rucks.

FORWARDS
B LONG $215k
Long was pick 25 in the 2016 Draft and played 4 games in his debut season. Showed some glimpses of his talent in those games and should get more opportunities this season.
At such a low price of $215k, he could be a decent cash cow. Keep an eye on him in the JLT series.

DUAL POSITION
B ACRES $549k Midfielder/Forward - Keeper Cow
Had his best season to date and looks to be finally delivering on his potential after 4 seasons on the list.
Played 18 games with an average of 78 and 4 tons. Consistency is improving and so will his average in 2018.
Very handy that AFL Fantasy has given him Forward Position given is more a midfielder but $549k is a steep price.
Will be watching his form in the JLT series very closely.

MUST HAVE:
S ROSS $718k Midfielder - Must Have Keeper
Became an elite ball winning Midfielder last season with a big average of 102 points per game.
He is the nephew of Tim Watson, cousin of Jobe and showed his class, getting over 100 a tidy 14 times.
Only went under 80 twice so very consistent and at only 24 years of age he is entering his prime now.
I think he can even go better this year and he is a must have for any Fantasy coach.

J STEVEN $661k Midfielder - Must Have Keeper
Star Saints on baller who was a little down on his best in 2017 and at times stuggled with the attention from taggers.
Was Fantasy gold in 2015, 2016 seasons with averages of 111 and 104 but it slid down to 93 last season so thus you get a bit of a discounted price. Still had the 9 tons with a high of 133 and could easily return to those levels this year. For $675k it is really hard to say no considering what he can bring to the table.

J BILLINGS $666k Forward - Must Have Keeper
The 2013 number 3 Draft pick had an exciting 2017 season and looks to be a special talent. Had an average of 95 with
11 tons and a high of 151 to show how high his ceiling is. With his class, don't be surprised if bobs up in the Midfield this year for the Saints and booms. As a Forward he will be hot property in Dream Team this year and is a must have for sure.

Future super star?

D ROBERTON $636k Defender - Keeper
A Defender with a huge ceiling, who can just seem to be everywhere in that Saints backline some weeks.
Had a 90 point average for 2017 which included 8 tons and a high of 134.
Is great value at that $636k price and very rarely has a bad day. I would not hesitate in slotting him straight into your Fantasy Defence and he is a must have at that price.

Avoid Like the Plague:
T HICKEY $467k Ruck
You may find yourself picking your dream team and leaving the Rucks until last. You might then realise you don't have all that much money left so you look for a cheaper option and you see Hickey.
Don't do it. Longer has put daylight between him and Hickey for the number 1 Ruck Spot and Richardson only plays the 1 Ruck. Only got on the park 5 times last year.

DEFENDERS
C MILLS $488k Defender - Keeper Cow
Had a little bit of the 2nd year blues after an outstanding debut season which culminated in him winning the Rising Star Award. Average dropped to 69 after being 73 in his debut season but I expect we will see a much improved Mills in 2018 given how talented this youngster is.
At 488k do not hesitate to snap him up.

J LlOYD $649k Defender - Must Have Keeper
Premium must have Defender who like a lot of his team mates was a little down on his best in 2017. He still maintained a 92 point average and that was despite leaving a game injured for a 2. Had the 9 tons and is very consistent. Expect improvement in the 2018 season and a safe choice despite the price tag.

MIDFIELDER
J KENNEDY $690k Midfielder - Keeper
What a champion this guy has been. I still remember what a one man army he was in the Midfield in that 2016 Grand Final. Is a beast of a clearance player and a prolific possession winner.
Turns 30 this year but still in his prime and will be around the 100 average mark again in 2018 no doubt.
For 2017 he was a touch below his best with a 98 average but still had a dozen 100 point games.
$690k is a good price for him.

D HANNEBERY $665k Midfielder - Keeper
Great ball user, he knows how to find it, is hard as nails and would die for the cause. The sort of player every team wants and at that price every Fantasy coach may want him as well.
Had 111 and 108 averages in 2015,16 but dropped to 94 last year. Will be only 27 when the season starts so still in his prime and I expect he will have a better year in 2018.
I would have no hesitation picking him at that price.

An Elite midfielder but Swans need a bigger 2018 from Hanneberry

N NEWMAN $610k Midfielder - Keeper
Rookie list player drafted in 2015 and spend the 2016 season learning his craft in the NEAFL.
Made his debut in 2017 and what a season it turned out to be. Newman went on to play 18 games with a Fantasy average of 87 which included 5 tons and a high of 137 to demonstrate what he is capable of.
Price would be terrific if he was a Defender with that average but another strange position choice by AFL Fantasy sees him listed as a Midfielder.
Spends more time off the half back flank than the Midfield (although you could argue half back flankers are midfielders in the modern game) so he should be a good chance to pick up a Dual Position Defender upgrade later for owners.
As just a Midfielder for $610k he loses a little of his appeal.

Z JONES $556k Midfielder - Keeper
Had a good 2017 season with an average of 79 but is another one that plays more off the half back line then he does the Midfield yet only has Midfielder position in AFL Fantasy this season.
Like Newman he should get a Dual Position Defender upgrade later on and probably better to wait for that as he is not prolific enough to be a $556k Midfielder only.

RUCKS
C SINCLAIR $525k Ruck - Keeper
Justified his decision to request a trade to Sydney from West Coast at the end of 2015 as he has had 2 solid seasons in the Harbour city and established himself as their number 1 Ruck with his best season to date.
Played 19 games in 2017 including both their Finals for a solid 75 point average which included 2 tons. Not the highest scoring Ruck but still has improvement in him and for the price you could do worse.

D CAMERON $170k Ruck - Cash Cow
Was a mature age selection in the 3rd round of the 2016 Draft and created some buzz in the off seasons at the Swans. Was tipped to be a bolter into their Round 1 team but a finger laceration saw him miss out.
He was still rewarded with a 2 year contract extension in April to show how much the Swans rate him.
Shoulder surgery ended his year early but watch for him to put his hand up in the JLT Series.
His job of breaking into the team just got easier with the news of Tippets retirement but he does have Sinclair and Naismith currently ahead of him in the pecking order.
Neither of them are champions though and Longmire will look to play 2 rucks this season now Tippet is gone.
A really good bench option that could make you some nice $$'s

FORWARDS
S REID $490k Forward - Keeper Cow
Missed the whole 2016 season but reminded everyone how important he is to the Swans attacking line up with a great return in 2017.
His average of 70 doesn't paint the whole picture as he did run out of puff and form towards the end of the season.
He did ton up twice and his average is sure to improve this year with Tippets departure creating and even bigger role.
He will also benefit from another full pre season and will be fitter this time around.
If he has a hot JLT series he will really need to be considered at a price of just $490k.

DUAL POSITION
T PAPLEY $555k Midfielder/Forward - Keeper
I have no hesitation in saying he is one of the most dangerous small forwards in the comp but he has shown he is more than capable of playing in the Midfield now which gives him even more value. Had an average of 79 for the season but he could mix his form at times.
I would expect improvement now he is entering his 3rd season at the top level and should see more midfield time as well. The dual position Forward option makes him a great value pick up.

G HEWITT $535k Midfielder/Forward - Keeper
Another who has some Fantasy value given the dual Forward position. Is a little pricey given he only averaged 76 a game last year. He is more a midfielder then a forward which is a plus and only has played the 42 games so should be room for some improved numbers. Not the most exciting option but worth a mention.

MUST HAVE:
L PARKER $693k Midfielder - Must Have Keeper/Absolute Bargain
A champion midfielder in his prime who has such a terrific all round game and a great mark for his size.
Usually has a very high Fantasy average but did drop a bit last season to 98 per game.
He may have an excuse as he looked to be carrying an injury at times but was still consistent and had 9 tons.
In 2016 he had a 110 average and went 100+ up 15 times. I expect him to be more at that level this year and he is a serious steal at $693k.

L FRANKLIN $677k Forward - Must Have Keeper
Buddy will be 31 when the season starts but is still the best tall forward in the competition on the back of another superb 2017 season.
Franklin finished the season with 69 goals, a 96 point fantasy average, his 7th All australian and his 4th Coleman medal.
Buddy put up 9 tons with a high of 171.
We all know he can put up some silly scores on his day and has a personal best fantasy score of 204 points from that famous game in Tassie against Nth Melbourne.
He will put up the odd quiet match but they are few and far between. Even at his age he is worth every cent of that $677k price tag.

Does Buddy have another 13 goal game in him before the end?

I HEENEY $649k Midfield/Forward - Must Have Keeper/Absolute Bargain
Would be almost the first choice Forward in every Dream Team this year at that price. Was affected by Glandular Fever early last season and had a delayed start to the season. Given the after effects of that illness can be felt for months and months, Heeney still had a very strong season with 7 tons from 20 games (including finals).
Had an average of 92 for the season but would be short odds to push that up over 100 this year.
I expect him to play a lot more on the ball so the dual position Forward is a real bonus and he is a steal at 649k.

Avoid Like the Plague:
J MCVEIGH $530k Defender
Was injury ravaged and could only manage 2 games up until round 15 last year. To his credit he managed to hold his body together and he put in some good games late in the season to show his quality.
Despite that I was shocked that he decided to play on.
Turns 33 this year and has a real issue with soft tissue injuries. Is a Defender which gives him some value but his scoring power is nowhere near what it used to be and $530k is way too high a price. I would strongly recommend passing on him.

K JACK $526k Midfielder/Forward - Keeper
Turns 31 this season and looked like his career was cooked in the 1st half of the 2017 season. To his credit he pulled out
some decent games in the 2nd half of the season to show he still has something to offer but there were still some flat ones mixed in there as well.
From all reports he is having a full pre season and he does have a very useful Forward option in Fantasy but way too risky to spend $526k on him now. I think the game has passed him by

DEFENDERS
J MCGOVERN $550k Defender - Keeper
A great swingman who can play Defence or Forward but is probably most valuable as an impassable Defender who intercept marks everything. Would have to be close to the strongest hands in the comp as he just seems to hold everything.
Mcgovern was rewarded for a brilliant 2017 season with his first All Australian award. He finished the season with his highest Fantasy average ever of 78 and was very consistent.
No reason he can't repeat those numbers in 2018 and $550k is about the right price.

L DUGGAN $475k Defender - Keeper Cow
Young eagles on baller who is a highly rated youngster and went at pick 11 in the 2014 Draft.
Steadily progressed through his first couple of seasons and then had his best season last year playing 18 games with an average of 67. Did have a high of 124 but will need to increase his consistency to have real Fantasy Value.
Due to the fact he is a Defender and is on the improve he is worth the $475k especially if he shows some early promise in the JLT Series.

MIDFIELDER
L SHUEY $696k Midfielder - Keeper
Elite ball winning midfielder who showed his champion qualities when he kicked that winning goal against Port Adelaide in the Elimination Final last year.
Is in his prime with an average of 98 last season and whilst he can have the odd down week he did have 13 tons last year with a high of 151.
Had a hot stretch between Rounds 2 and 8 where he was over 100 every week. For $696k he is a bargain and very close to being a must have.

Eagles fans love the ball in this guys hands

D SHEED $606k Midfielder - Keeper
Sheed is entering his 5th season now on the back of his best ever year in 2017.
He is a former high 1st Round Draft pick who is starting to live up to his potential and had a 87 average last season.
Had the 6 tons with a high of 126 to give us a glimpse at what he might produce for Fantasy owners this season.
Given he is young and still improving he probably offers a bit more value than similar players at that price and should
be considered for sure.

J REDDEN $583k Midfielder - Keeper
Was a gun Fantasy option at the Lions but another player who proves the grass is not alway greener on the other side when you move clubs.
Has not been the same player at West Coast but did show some promising signs in the 2nd half of the 2017 season and finished with a 83 point average. Had the 3 games over 100 in the run home and if he looks good in the JLT series he might be worth considering.

RUCK
S LYCETT $423k Ruck - Keeper/Cow
A powerful Ruckman who would be the starting Ruck in a lot of sides but plays 2nd fiddle to Nic Nat.
Would of had a huge chance whilst Naitanui was out with an ACL but disappointingly he had injury problems of his own and could only get on the park once.
Like his fellow Ruckman Nic Nat, Lycett is fully fit now and is itching to get on the park for the 2018 season.
Simpson prefers to play 2 rucks as he likes the freedom to throw Naitanui forward, so Lycett will have an important role to play in the side this year. He had a solid 80 point average in 2016 season with the 3 tons and you can safely expect a similar return if not more this year as long as he stays healthy. A bargain price.

FORWARDS
J KENNEDY $575k Forward - Keeper
The Eagles Full Forward superstar who is probably the 2nd best tall forward in the comp after Buddy of course.
Has had an interrupted pre season with an ankle issue but Eagles expect him to be right for Round 1.
He is one I have no problems taking, even if he has had a limited pre season as you can just bank on him kicking his bags of goals especially in Perth.
Has averaged in the 80's the last 3 seasons , will put up some big weeks and is a safe choice at that price.

J DARLING $490k Forward - Keeper/Cow
Was a highly rated WA Key Forward in the 2010 under 18's although his off field behaviour was a cause for concern resulting in him sliding all the way out of the 1st round and into the Eagles clutches at pick 26.
He looked to make a mockery of those concerns when he played 20 games in his debut year and looked a champion in the making.
As his 490k price tag indicates it hasn't been all roses ever since and he hasn't really improved his output since that debut season. Whilst he is still a good player, he is not a great player.
Turns 26 this year and is in his prime so it is starting to become now or never to improve on that 69 average.
At a fairly cheap price he might be worth one more chance if he looks good in the JLT series.

W RIOLI $170k Forward - Cash Cow
Taken in the 3rd round of the 2016 draft, West Coast are very excited about this mature age Small Forward who had a brilliant season in the WAFL.
Was talked about for a possible surprise debut in their Finals series but the Eagles remained conservative in their team selection. Rioli will turn 23 this year so has played plenty of senior footy in the WAFL and is ready for senior football.
The mail out of West Coast is they are looking for Rioli and fellow mature age recruit Ryan to form a new look small Forward partnership so there are a couple of ripping Cash Cow options coming out of West Coast this season.

MUST HAVE:
A GAFF $709k Midfielder - Must Have Keeper/Absolute Bargain
Star Eagles on baller who just runs and runs and runs and runs and runs. Would have an interesting battle with Tom Scully in a 10k run and must be one of the fittest blokes in the comp.
His huge engine allows him to get to more contests and he can rack up some huge numbers.
You can try and tag him but your tagger will be in hospital on a drip after the match if tries to stay with Gaff for 4 quarters.
I am trying to figure out how he is only 709k this year and I guess he was a little flat at times in 2017 but still maintained a 100 point average. With 12 tons for the year and a high of 146 you can safely expect the same numbers again this season. He is a real bargain at that price.

N NAITANUI $417k Ruck - Must Have Keeper/Absolute Bargain
You will no doubt be faced with big decisions on who that premium Ruck you select first will be.
Gawn? Jacobs? Grundy? Kreuzer? So many options.
When it comes to that 2nd ruck you are probably going to want to save some money so look no further than a fully fit Nic Nat who will be back leading the Eagles Midfield.
Not many have as much influence around the ground as Nic Nat does and the former All Australian is a super star of the competition when up and running. A must have as your 2nd Ruck .

Will be exciting seeing this man back on the park in 2018

L RYAN $220k Forward - Must Have Cash Cow
Mature age recruit who lit up the WAFL in 2017 and was rewarded with a spot on the Eagles list.
West Coast rated him very highly and used their 2nd round pick (26) on him.
West Coast have drafted him with a view to him coming straight into the senior side.
If he performs in the JLT series a Round 1 spot will be his so he is a must have slam dunk Cash Cow option.

Avoid Like the Plague:
E YEO $692k Defender
A premium scoring Defender who under normal circumstances you would love to have in your Defence.
Unfortunately Yeo has struggled with a hip issue throughout the pre season and isn't able to do full training as he remains a week to week proposition. Players can manage this through the season and he is not ruled out for Round 1 but to spend almost $700k on a Defender you need him to be perfect.
Wait and see how Yeo looks on the field before purchasing.

N VARDY $454k Ruck
This is harsh on Vardy because he exceeded all expectations in his first season at West Coast and his injury plagued body stood up when WC needed it most given they were without Lycett for much of the season plus Nic Nat for all of it.
Vardy had an OK Fantasy average for a Ruck with a 65 but with a fit Naitanui & Lycett back he will struggle to get a game. $454k would be a lot of money to spend on a bloke who will likely be running around in the WAFL.

C MASTEN $551k Midfielder
Frustratingly inconsistent despite having the talent to score big Fantasy scores on his day. WC finally ran out of patience with him last season and he was dropped back to the WAFL after Round 10. He would only manage 3 more games for the season with an average of 78.
You probably do not want a Midfielder who has a 78 average at the best of times unless he has huge upside.
That average and the strong chance of WAFL football in 2018 means you really want to steer clear of this bloke.

M LECRAS $510k Forward
Was once one of the best small Forwards in the comp but had a horrible 2017 as Father Time caught up with him.
Will turn 32 this year and given his form last season I was very surprised he didn't retire.
Average dropped to 72 and will only get lower this year plus a chance he retires before season end.
You would be mad to pay the $510k for this bloke.

S HURN $541k Defender - Keeper
I'd written this guy off as a Fantasy option prior to 2017 but despite being 30 he actually boosted his numbers and had some huge weeks which included a shock 137 against the Dockers. He finished the season with a 76 average which is very respectable for a Defender but I am not sold.
The 2 years prior he had a 60's average and he turns 31 this season. I guess after last year I can't write him off but
I would steer clear as too risky for $541k.

L JETTA $472k Midfielder - Keeper/Cow
A very dodgy Fantasy option who has not been the same player at the Eagles compared to his form at the Swans.
A 53 average in 2016 was jaw droppingly bad and whilst he did improve his average to 67 in 2017, it is still nowhere
near good enough. Is 29 this year so I fail to see where the improvement might come from.
By all reports he is having a good pre season but don't get sucked in by any feel good news stories or the relatively cheap price at $472k.
There are far better options around for that money.

DEFENDERS
M SUCKLING $552k Defender - Keeper
Not at his best in the 2017 season but did still manage a 78 average. WIll turn 30 during the season but
still in his prime and will play an important role of the half back line for the Dogs this season.
The concern I have is because of his elite kicking he will always get extra opposition attention as can carve a side up off that half back flank and get forward for a goal.
He warrants consideration that 78 average but I think he is too risky at that price.

S BIGGS $542k Defender - Keeper Cow
What a pick up from Sydney this guy has been. Couldn't get a game at ths Swans but was an elite attacking
defender for the Dogs in that 2016 Premiership season.
Like a lot of his team mates he seemed to suffer a little bit of a Premiership hangover in 2017 and his average dropped to 76. He is a lot better than that average suggests and he can rack up possessions in that back line.
He had a couple of tons towards the end of the season and finished well. I expect him to improve back to his 2016 levels in 2018 and maybe even more, so he will be a bargain at that price.

J JOHANNISEN $535k Defender - Keeper Cow
Yet another Dog who had a bit of a premiership hangover and was not at his best in 2017.
The Norm Smith Medallist is one of the most elite attacking defenders in the game when he is at his best.
He really struggled with the extra opposition attention last year and his average dropped to just 75 per game.
He is surely too talented to not get back to his best in 2018 and he would be a bargain at that price is he does.
Keep an eye on his JLT Series and if any hint of form I would be getting him in quick smart.

Will JJ be back to his best in 2018?

M ADAMS $513k Defender - Keeper
Hugely important elite marking Defender who went down with injury last season in what was a huge blow for the Dogs Defence.
Had the 10 games last year for a 72 average but he is way better than that average suggests. If he can stay on the park I expect a 90+ average, so I think he represents great value at that price tag.
Will be keeping a close eye on him in the JLT Series.

MIDFIELDER
T LIBERATORE $507k Midfielder - Keeper Cow
A lot of Dogs players were down in 2017 but Libba's season was particularly horrible.
He started the year on fire in the JLT Series and in Rounds 1 & 2 he had 14 then 16 tackles for scores of 115 & 105.
From there it went pear shaped and he found himself dropped from the team in Rounds 9-12.
Got back into the team in Round 13 and managed to hold his spot in the best 22 from there but he was nowhere near his best.
Like his Dad, Libba is a tackling machine who can win plenty of the ball when he is up and running.
He is only 25 so there is no reason he can't get back to his best in 2018 and with that in mind his $507k price makes him very tempting.
He could be a genius pick or an absolute disaster but I will back him in to have a good year.

RUCK
T CAMPBELL $509k Ruck - Keeper
Will have a battle on his hands with J Roughead to be the number 1 Ruck at the Dogs but given Roughead's versatility to play Forward or even down back there could be a spot for both of them in Beveridge's plans this year.
His 79 average means he is worth consideration but with Boyd and English also eyeing off a spot in the team there is too big a risk he plays VFL footy this year instead.

J ROUGHEAD $483k Ruck - Keeper
Premiership winning Ruckman with the Dogs who was a star late in that 2016 season.
Not the highest average scorer but he does have the odd ton in his bag and I think he is capable of putting together his biggest Fantasy numbers this year after an injury interrupted 2017.
Has more versatility than Campbell so I have no doubt he will be the number 1 big man at the Dogs this season.
He makes this list for that potential and the cheap price of just $483k.

FORWARDS
L PICKEN $536k Forward - Keeper Cow
What a servant of the club this guy has been. Was immense in that 2016 premiership year and is the heart and soul of this Doggies outfit. Turns 32 this year so will not see as much Midfield time but he is still well worth the $536k as a Forward in your team.
Had a Fantasy average of 76 last year so like a lot of his team mates that number was down on his best. I think unlike a lot of other players at his age he still has a lot to offer and can actually increase on that 76 average this season.
He is very durable and has a very high ceiling on his day so must be considered at $536k.

J DUNKLEY $503k Forward - Keeper Cow
What a debut season Dunkley had in 2016 after been taken by the Dogs in the 2nd round of the 2015 Draft after Sydney surprisingly passed on the chance to match Dogs bid via their Father Son rights.
Dunkley went on to play 13 games in his debut season for an average of 80 and was part of that Dogs premiership team.
As is a recurring theme when you look through the Dogs list last year, he to was down on that form in 2017.
In Dunkley's case it was more due to injury interruption and he could only get on the park 7 times.
I expect him to be straight back into that Dogs Midfield rotation in 2018 and will be even better now he is in his 3rd year. With Forward position given to him in AFL Fantasy he is almost a must have at that price.

DUAL POSITION
L DAHLHAUS $624k Midfielder/Forward - Must Have Keeper/Absoulte Bargain
What a star this guy is and despite being so consistent for so long even he was down on his usual output in 2017.
His average dropped to 88 which is not too bad but Fantasy players had grown accustomed to seeing Dalhaus go over 100 on a regular basis with a 90+ average. Lucky for us his form drop means a discounted price of $624k this year.
He is still in the prime of his career and I have no doubt he will put up bigger numbers this season so he makes a strong case for a spot in your Forward line.

T MCLEAN $603k Midfielder/Forward - Keeper
Showed glimpses of his talent in previous seasons but as a lot of his team mates were going backwards last year, he was putting up his career best numbers. Increased his average from 72 in 2016 to 85 last season and he had the 6 tons with a high of 127 to demonstrate a nice ceiling.
Will only improve further in 2018 and he is great value at $603k given you can expect big numbers from him up Forward.

C DANIEL $530k Midfielder/Forward - Keeper Cow
What a little ripper this guy is. The shortest player in the comp but uses that low centre of gravity to his advantage and he is tremendously well balanced.
Is also very hard at it and has an eye for goal. Not the most prolific ball winner and only has a 75 average but is still young with plenty of improvement left in him.
Being a Forward in Fantasy gives him that extra value and worth considering at $530k.

M WALLIS $526k Midfielder/Forwaed - Keeper Cow
Returned to the team in Round 9 after an ACL injury robbed him of being part of the 2016 Premiership side as well as delaying his 2017 start.
A lot of players are a little off the year after a knee reco but despite this and the lack of pre season Wallis still put up a respectable 74 average.
You can expect a lot better than that this year now he is fully fit and had a full pre season. He is not the most prolific scorer but can definitely go over 100 on his day and will spend a greater amount of time in the Midfield this season.
At $526k he is great value and has to be strongly considered.

T ENGLISH $187k Ruck/Forward - Cash Cow
A really exciting young player who brings Midfielder like athleticism to the table despite being a Ruck.
English was a highly rated Midfielder in his junior years before a massive growth spurt shot him up to 205cm.
I think this confused some recruiters as to what his true value would be given you don't see to many 205cm Midfielders and he hadn't established himself as a true ruckman either.
So the Dogs got a steal by picking him up at pick 19 in the 2016 draft. Fresh off winning the Premiership they had the luxury of taking on a project player that could have a massive pay off in the end.
The Dogs however are keen to fast track his development and gave him a couple of games at the top level in 2017.
He looked raw but you can see the immense talent. It might be too early for him in 2018 but will only improve and will get games as a 2nd ruck in support of Roughead.
How quickly he comes on in 2018 is anyone's guess but he is one to look out for in the JLT Series.

MUST HAVE:
J MACRAE $732k Midfielder - Must Have Keeper
What a star this guy is and he is one of few Dogs that maintained his high standards in the 2017 season.
Macrae had a 103 average with 11 tons and a high of 149 to demonstrate the ceiling you get with him.
Never seems to have a bad game so a very reliable pick up and a very nice price.

M BONTEMPELLI $706k Midfielder - Must Have Keeper/Absoulte Bargain
The 'Bont' is one of the superstars of the competition and at just 22 years of age it is scary to imagine just how good he will be in his prime.
Already a Premiership star and another one of few dogs that maintained his high standards in the 2017 season for an average of 100.
He had 11 tons in 2017 and will be even better in 2018 as he moves into the prime of his career.
I know it is hard to fit all the stars into your starting team but at $706k he is a huge bargain and is a must.
I am on a mission to work out how to fit T Mitchell, Danger, Dusty, Bont and Fyfe into my starting team for Round 1.

The Great man

L HUNTER $634k Midfielder - Keeper
Ball winning machine who put up huge numbers in 2016 but was down on that in 2017. With an Average of 103 in 2016 and with a habit of putting up ridiculously big scores at Etihad Stadium, he was fast becoming a Fantasy must have player.
Like most of his team mates the premiership hangover was in effect and his average dropped to 90 in 2017.
Still had the 9 tons with a high of 131 last season and I expect him to be a lot better in 2018.
At $634k I would not hesitate putting him in your side as he is capable of putting up some pretty special scores.

Avoid Like the Plague:
T BOYD $451k Ruck
For a second there late in the 2016 season Boyd looked like he was going to be the player the Dogs hoped he would be and it culminated in him starring in the 2016 Grand Final albeit in the Ruck (not as the key Forward he was meant to be).
Boyd was the number 1 pick in the 2013 Draft for the Giants and was described as the best Key Forward to come through the Under 18's in a long time.
He got a taste of senior football in his debut season and showed some glimpses of his talent.
Boyd then stunned the Football world in the off season of 2014 when he requested a trade to the Dogs after only 1 year with GWS.
This announcement came less than 24 hours after then Dogs skipper Ryan Griffen had requested a trade the other way to GWS.
The Dogs offered Boyd an amazing 7 year $1 million a season contract which was and is unheard of for a youngster who was still unproven at the level.
So the deal was done and Boyd went on to have an underwhelming 2015 season that included a bust up with teammate Cordy.
His 2016 season seemed to go the same way and he managed only 11 home and away games for a measly average of 57.
Then surprisingly, in the 1st and 2nd Elimination Final he was very strong in the Ruck and played some of his best Footy for the Dogs when it mattered.
His Prelim was so, so but he then played the game of his life in the Grand Final for a Fantasy score of 96 and was in the argument for the Norm Smith Medal.
So on the back of that finish everyone was back to having big expectations on Boyd in 2017 and the pressure was too much for him.
His form suffered and he was back to being in and out of the side. Then after Round 13 he announced he was standing out of Football to deal with Depression.
I hope for his and the Dogs sake he can get on top of his mental demons as he obviously has so much talent waiting to be unlocked. From all reports he is having a full pre season and will be back playing football this year but you could not possibly have him at $451k could you?
With all the Ruck competition he really needs to be able to play Forward this year but I worry for the Dogs when their 2 Key Forwards are him and the also unstable Shache. Has train wreck written all over it.

L JONG $505k Midfielder/Forward
The Dogs have so many classy Midfielders that they spill over to the Wings and Flanks so it is really hard to believe it went so wrong in 2017.
Jong is another one who is also very dangerous as a forward but unfortunately he did his ACL in June last year so will miss the first half of the 2018 season. He might be one to look out for later in 2018 but avoid him for now.

That concludes my 4 part AFL Fantasy preview for 2018. I will be back with few more Fantasty blogs between now and the start of the season.

Thanks for reading

-Dahmsy