AFL FANTASY 2018 - Keepers, Bargains and Cash Cows Part 3

Hi all,

Welcome to my part 3 where I will preview some good Fantasy buys for GWS, Hawthorn, Melbourne, North Melbourne and Port Adelaide.

This is the 3rd of 4 parts that will cover off all 18 sides.

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

Huge Brownlow chance

DEFENDERS
N HAYNES $511k Defender - Keeper
Played just the 16 games (including finals) last year, did have some injury issues but enjoying a full pre season now and entering his prime.
Average of 73 doesn't look all that pretty but I think we will see that greatly improve this year and he did have 3 100+ games to show where his ceiling is at. He will take on a bigger responsibility in that Giants back line this season with the absence of Wilson (Freo) and Williams (injury). Haynes offers rebound but also an elite marking ability. Price tag is high I know but I think he will turn out worth that money and more.

A TOMLINSON $400k Defender - Keeper Cow
Ok this one is a huge punt but at just $400k he is almost Cash Cow territory. Tomlinson is a funny player to get a read on. For a start he is 194cm but doesn't seem to play key back, more bobs up anywhere from the back pocket to the wing.
In a perfect world GWS use him as that roaming defensive player as he is good in the air, has a big tank and can accumulate touches.
Only has a 57 point average thus the cheap price but I think that is all about to change. Had 26 disposals and a score
of 110 against Richmond in the Prelim Final and prior to that has a history of getting 40+ disposals a game when dropped back to NEAFL level. So if he doesn't get specific Defensive shut down roles he can really score big so keep a close eye on how GWS use him the in the JLT Series. Even a chance he turns into a big power Midfielder but that might be wishful thinking.

H HIMMELBERG $347k Defender - Cash Cow
What a star in the making this youngster is who broke out on the big stage last year with 4 goals in that qualifying final against the Crows.
Then he was a huge presence again in the Prelim Final against the Tigers when he could of had a bag but missed too many and finished with 2.5. Those two matches were Fantasy scores of 75 and 74.
He is now entering his 3rd season of AFL footy and he has played the 13 games so will be ready to take another step forward. I expect him to cement himself in the GWS best 22.
He can play Forward or Defence and will likely swing between both, so owners should get a nice dual position upgrade later as well. Keep an eye out for him in the JLT as he is worth considering for that price.

MIDFIELD
D SHIEL $666k Midfielder - Keeper
$666k is a good deal for Shiel considering he is an elite on baller capable of scoring very highly on his day. Average of 95 last year and just the 6 tons but was playing with a banged up shoulder that would cause him to spend a lot of minutes in games off the field getting treatment on it.
I expect even more this year now he will have that shoulder right plus he is now entering the prime of his career so definitely worth a look at for that price.

R GRIFFEN $470k Midfielder - Keeper Cow
Former elite Fantasy scoring midfielder who missed most of 2017 through injury.
The former Bulldogs captain is 31 now and comes with his share of risk but considering the scoring power you could be buying for just 470k it is very tempting.
That scoring power has not really been evidenced yet at GWS as his last 2 seasons were mostly injury right offs.
His first season (2015) at GWS was also a little maligned as he played 21 games for just a 90 point average which by his standards is low and he also only got the 4 tons.
The good news is he is having a full pre season and by all reports his body seems to be right now. He probably has got 1 more big year in him and I am tipping this is the year he shows GWS what they bought for their money. I am rolling the dice on a potential A Grader for just $470k.

J HOPPER $461k Midfielder - Keeper Cow
Elite young on baller entering his 3rd season and with 16 games under his belt should be ready to shine. $461k is a bit of a steep price mind you for a youngster with only a 65 point average but given the likely improvement he is worth keeping under consideration. See what he does in the JLT before deciding

FORWARDS
T GREENE $644k Midfielder - Keeper
Greene is out and out the best medium/small Forward in the comp. At any other club he would be an elite A grade Midfielder but such is the Giants depth in that part of ground they play Greene Forward where his nose for goal is deadly.
Only played the 16 games last season as Greene has a little bit of a temper issue which gets him suspended more than his coach and his AFL Fantasy coach's would like. This unreliability is the only reason he is not in the must have column.
In his 16 games last season he average 91 with the 4 tons. Entering the prime of his career now expect him to further improve on that this season and would be an excellent pick up for anyone's Dream Team Forward line

With the crack down on jumper punches, Toby will likely have a few weeks off throughout the season

J CAMERON $622k Forward - Keeper
One of the most exciting and gifted key Forwards in the game. 88 point average last year in his 18 games which included 5 tons with a high of 133 to show where his ceiling is at. Did have injury issues and looked to be playing a little hurt in the last month of the season.
He is enjoying a big pre season and as fully fit so he could do anything this year. 100 goals is not out of the realms of possibility when it comes to Cameron.

J PATTON $502k Forward - Keeper
Not traditionally as good a scorer in AFL Fantasy as his key position team mate Cameron but that changed a bit last season. His average got up to 71 in the end with 3 tons and a high of 133 to show where his ceiling is at.
Further more expect to see him get a lot more Ruck time this season with Mumford's retirement so will be more involved in the play. Worth a thought especially if you see him doing a lot of Ruck work in the JLT Series.

R LOBB $467k Forward - Keeper
Like Patton, Lobb will also do a fair share of Ruck work at times this season which will help his numbers. Lobb is a seriously talented big man and wonderful mark.
Only a 66 point average so $467k is a bit steep but he is still on the improve. If he takes over the lions share of Mumford's Ruck duties he will all of a sudden be a bargain for that price.
Like Patton check out how much Ruck time he gets in the JLT Series

L TIZIANI $170k Forward - Cash Cow
Bottom price but very talented, Tiziani has just not been able to secure a spot in the Giants best 22 so far in his time there. Looked a brilliant small forward in the JLT series and was terrific in the NEAFL for them. If he has developed further which I am sure he has and is good again in the JLT Series, he may win that overdue spot in the best 22. At bottom price is worth a spot on your bench if that happens.

DUAL POSITION
T TARANTO $433k Midfielder/Forward - Keeper Cow
Exciting young player who was pick 2 in the 2016 AFL Draft had an exciting debut season for the Giants playing 12 games for a 61 point average. Had a high of 84 and has a very handy dual position. Will no doubt cement a spot in the Giants best 22 this season and given his serious talent I wouldn't be surprised if he maintains an 80 or more average with some big weeks. Worth serious consideration at $433k.

J FINLAYSON $170k Defender/Midfielder - Cash Cow
Talented GWS Academy player who made his debut last year but was injured during the game and didn't get on the park again. He is a hugely athletic 196cm unit and I expect he will get back into that GWS senior team sooner rather then later. Keep an eye on his JLT series as he is bottom price and a great Cash Cow for your defense.

W SETTERFIELD $265k Midfielder/Forward - Cash Cow
Of all the talent that has come out of the GWS Academy in recent years, this guy is the most highly rated. Despite having him Academy tied, GWS still had to pay a pick 5 for him in the 2016 Draft and this 190cm on baller has been described as in the Bontempelli mould.
Suffered injuries in his 1st season at the club so only managed the 2 games but a 6 tackle 70 score in one of them was a glimpse of whats to come.
Keep an eye on him in the JLT as I suspect he will draw some attention and expect to see him line up in Round 1 for the Giants. A great Cash Cow option.

M FLYNN $170k Ruck/Forward - Cash Cow
Drafted in 2015 this 20 year old ruckman has been in the GWS academy since he was 12 years old. Kicked 26 goals in 18 games last year in the NEAFL and has impressed the Giants with his versatility. With Mumford's shock retirement Flynn finds himself one of only 2 genuine Rucks on the Giants list.
Whilst Lobb & Patton will share some ruck duties they are primarily forwards and this is where the Giants want them to spend most of their time.
If the Giants decide to keep those two Forward and bring in a specialist Ruck like what Mumford was then Flynn would only have the underwhelming Dawson Simpson to get ahead of to play senior football this year. At bottom end price of $170k could be a good Ruck bench Cash Cow option.

MUST HAVE:

J KELLY $795k Midfielder - Must Have Keeper
Was one of the most sought after talents in the country last year with rumours of 7 year million dollars plus contracts being thrown at him.
In the end he was loyal to the Giants and resigned with them which is refreshing to see.
Only 22 years old and an All Australian, Kelly is already a superstar and one of the best midfielders in the game.
Played 24 games last season including finals for a 113 point average. Went over 100 an incredible 18 times with a high round of 162 to demonstrate his ceiling. That he is not over $800k is a miracle and he is must buy.

L WHITFIELD $690k Midfielder - Must Have Keeper
The former number 1 overall draft pick had a late start to the 2017 season thanks to that ASADA suspension but went on to play 15 games and star for the Giants. Average of 98 with 7 games over 100 and a high of 130. With a full pre season that is not interrupted by an ASADA ban plus his natural improvement I expect really big things from Whitfield this year. At the discounted price of $690k he is a serious must have.

S CONIGLIO $663k Midfielder - Must Have Keeper
Another member of an insanely talented GWS midfield who is also hard to overlook at a discounted price of $663k.
Coniglio had an injury interrupted 2017 season but is now fit and is entering the prime of his career now.
In his 10 games last season he still managed a 96 average, 5 tons and never went under 82.
In 2016 his average was 103 with 14 tons and a high of 136. An elite talent for the discounted price of $663k so hard to not pick him!

Avoid Like the Plague:

Z WILLIAMS $583k Defender
Star creative defender for the Giants has sadly ruptured an Achilles and will miss the 2018 season. Huge blow when
for GWS especially when you consider the loss of N Wilson to the Dockers.

H SHAW $565k Defender
Pains me to say it as he has been a great Fantasy scoring Defender for years now but avoid picking him.
33 this year and the evidence was there last year that Father time has caught up with him. An average of 80
which by his standards is very low and scores diminished as year went on. From Round 17 onwards into finals
he went 72,68,64,79,76,84,42,72,68,80,66 and 80. With his age you would expect these to keep dropping so way
too big a risk to spend $565k on

B DELEDIO $530k Forward
What a colossal mess up by Deledio to spend over a decade at Richmond, go through all those painful years, finally
jump ship at the end of 2016 and then watch as his beloved Tigers won the flag in 2017. OUCH!
If its any consolation he probably wouldn't of got on the park for the game anyway even if he was still there as his body is shot. Soft tissue injuries plague the talented Deledio now and even when he did make it on the park for 7 games last year, he looked nothing like the Deledio of old. He was a yard off the pace and scored in the 50's 3 times and the 40's twice. If you pay $530k for Deledio in AFL Fantasy this year then you need your head read.

DEFENDERS
R BURTON $594k Defender - Keeper
Great 2nd season by this youngster who not only cemented his spot in the Hawks back 6 but also became an integral part of their defence. Can do a job big and small and ultra consistent for Fantasy owners averaging 84 last year.
3 tons, a further 5 in the 90's and only 3 times under 70 was a huge effort for this youngster who will be further improved in his 3rd season. Worth every cent of his $594k price tag.

What a talent this youngster is

MIDFIELD
I SMITH $651k Midfielder - Keeper
Ultra consistent and ultra durable, Smith averaged 92 last season with the 8 tons. A high of 133 so a big ceiling but with Lewis and S Mitchell gone he found himself getting more opposition attention which slowed his average.
I wouldn't be surprised to see him get that average back up to around 100 this year despite the fact he turns the big 30. $651k is about the right price.

L SHIELS $640k Midfielder - Keeper
Another ultra consistent Hawk Midfielder who enjoyed a 91 average last season with the 7 tons. Maybe a tad less prolific
then his team mate Smith but he did have the same high score of 133. Another safe option for your Midfield.

R HENDERSON $615k Midfielder - Keeper
I would of like him better at that price if he was Defender but given he will see some time on the half back flank owners could get a dual position upgrade later. Had a tidy 87 average last season with 4 tons and a high of 120 so worth a mention on this list but I'd probably leave him out until he gets a dual position upgrade.

J WORPEL $182k Midfielder - Cash Cow
Tough nut in the under 18's last season who is physically ready to play at the level. Was Captain of the strong Geelong Falcons team and the Hawks must of been delighted when he slid to their pick 45 given O'Meara had taken all their early picks.
They are pretty astute judges of talent in the Hawks scouting team and I expect to see this youngster line up in the JLT series. A real chance for their Round 1 team and a could be a brilliant Cash Cow chance.

RUCK
B MCEVOY $644k Ruck - Keeper
Tough durable old school Ruckman who enjoyed his best season in recent memory last year for the Hawks. Had some
mammoth weeks by his usual standards as he not been one to ton up often in the past. Average of 91 per game and 7
tons including a high of 129. I am not convinced he will replicate that season but he would be a solid choice none the less.

J CEGLAR $342k Ruck - Keeper Cow
Did an ACL late in the 2016 season and missed the whole 2017 season. Before that he was developing nicely as an athletic Ruck that gets around the ground nicely to win touches. Is a tad undersized for a ruck so won't get those cheap hit out points but worth a thought at that price.

FORWARDS
J ROUGHEAD $593k Forward - Keeper
Phenomenal effort by Roughy last season after battling Skin Cancer in 2016 that required immunotherapy.
At one stage the footy world was just hoping Roughy would recover and survive the latest scare but he went one better to return to AFL in 2017 as good as ever.
Turns 31 this year and has been a very physical player his whole career so not sure how long he has got left in the game but showed no signs of slowing down last season. Had a solid 84 average with the 4 tons and a high of 132. If anything he should be better this year given he has had an uninterrupted pre season but I do worry father time might come a knocking so probably too risky at that price.

Gutsy return in 2017 by big Roughy

L BREUST $501k Forward - Keeper
Was a little down on best through the 2017 season in a struggling Hawthorn side. Was floated as possible trade bait in the off season but remains at the club. A very classy Forward who is a lot better than his 71 average last season suggests. If he looks sharp in the JLT series you might want to take on trust that he has a lot better 2018. $501k is a great price if you get Breust at his best.

J GUNSTON $598k Forward - Must Have Keeper
A seriously good player who was one Hawk who could hold his head high last season. Also showed he can play a blinder in Defence so don't be surprised if you get a Dual position upgrade with him later as Clarko will use him as a spare parts player to fill needs on a week to week basis.
Had an 85 average last season with the 5 tons and a high of 138. Will probably go even better this season in an improved Hawthorn side. Worth the $600k price tag.

DUAL POSITION
W LANGFORD $495k Midfield/Forward - Keeper Cow
Has not developed into the player everyone thought he was going to be but is still young and the Hawks are expected to be better this season so he might improve with the team. The fact he is a forward and only $495k means he is worth consideration.

J SICILY $523k Defender/Forward - Keeper
Had a break out year and was a shining light in a poor season for the Hawks. Has the very handy dual Defender/Forward and a solid 74 average. What is worth noting is the fact that in the 2nd half of the year he had 5 tons his last 10 games with a high of 124.
Entering into his 4th season now he is going to be even better and is worth a spot in your Fantasy team at that price.

MUST HAVE:

T MITCHELL $896k Midfielder - Must Have Keeper
Mitchell is the most expensive AFL Fantasy player of 2018 and for good reason. Like his Dad Barry, his ball winning ability
is uncanny and no one in the league gets it as much.
Where to start, well firstly I can tell you that he only had 2 games in 2017 that were under 30 disposals.
He only had 2 games where he did not get 100+ and they were a 94 & 99.
His high of the year was his 50 Disposal game against Collingwood in Round 9 which resulted in a 177 score. $896k is high but if you take him and Danger you have your weekly Captain choices settled for the year. Plus you really don't want to come up against him in your League.

J O'MEARA $438k Midfielder - Must Have Keeper Cow/Absolute Bargain
OK, lets get the elephant in the room out of the way first.
He played no football in 2015 or 2016 before moving to the Hawks in the 2016 off season when they sold the proverbial farm to get him. He then only played the 6 games last year which piled some heat on the Hawks recruiting staff.
The Hawk's are positive that he is finally %100 fit and they even played him in Round 23 to prove it. Jaeger didn't let them down and tonned up with a 101.
Now in case you don't know, agility wise he is one of the most complete athletes to ever come through the Under 18 system. He has exquisite football skills to match and is a natural on baller. There is a reason Hawthorn gave away so much for a kid with a dicky knee, their recruiters are no dummies.
So watch the JLT Series, make sure he is moving as good as they say and if you are satisfied he is %100 then get him in at $438k because you will never get a bloke more talented for that price.

Not since Judd have I seen a team give up so much in a trade for 1 player

Avoid Like the Plague:

G BIRCHALL $485k Defender
At $485k, Birchall will attract some interest no doubt given his talent but don't risk it. Already off the training track again
in January with "minor" knee surgery. This is on the back on an injury plagued 2017 season that saw him manage just the 5 games.
Has already turned 30 in January and although thats not the oldest his body is battle worn from all those glorious Premiership campaigns.
I could be wrong but I am not going to risk it either way.

S BURGOYNE $573k Midfielder
Maybe a little unfair given he had a wonderful 2017 season despite his age. If he had a dual position up his sleeve I
might of left him off this list but at $573k and as a Midfielder option you just can't risk taking a guy who turns 36 this year.
Has been a champion of the game but I suspect Father Time and injuries will catch up with him this year.

DEFENDERS
C SALEM $600k Defender - Keeper
Last year was his 4th season at the top level and the hugely talented Salem finally got the consistency in his game that was missing. He had a solid 85 point average with the 3 tons.
A high of 127 showed he is going to have a very high ceiling and I expect he will be a prolific possession winning half back flanker/winger this year. $600k is a worryingly high price tag but he will likely end up worth that and more. A dominant couple of JLT Series games wouldn't hurt his case.

J HUNT $510k Defender - Keeper Cow
Had a break out year last season with his insane pace and creativity off the half back flank. Is also an elite long kick and looks to have a very bright future. These are the sort of X factor players that Premiership teams are made of.
Had a solid average of 72 in just his 2nd season and also had 4 tons with a high of 129 to give us a glimpse of what he can do for Fantasy coaches. Will only be better in his 3rd season and worth consideration despite the $510k price tag.

J LEVER $481k Defender - Keeper Cow
A lot will be expected in Defence from Lever this year after the Demons paid big $ and traded heavily to win him
across from Adelaide. He is an intercept marking king in Defence who is extremely athletic and can do a job big or small.
Was rewarded with a spot in the All Australian Squad last year although he didn't make the team in the end.
Hard to believe he is only entering his 4th year at the top level so has plenty of improvement left in him.
His average of 68 is probably not a true reflection of his talent as he was so good last season but just lost form at the business end of the season sadly.
Plenty of media conjecture about where he was going to play his Footy in 2018 probably didn't help.
At $481k it is a cheap price for a player tipped to be a superstar in Defence for the Demons. Probably worth the punt.

Will be interesting to see how this trade works out long term. Demons gave up a lot for a Defender

MIDFIELD
J VINEY $638k Midfielder - Must Have Keeper/Absolute Bargain
Like his dad Todd, Jack is a classy Midfielder who would have to be close to the toughest, bravest player in the comp maybe only behind Joel Selwood.
Is very consistent and played hurt at times last year for a 91 average. Tonned up 4 times with a high of 145. Is entering the prime of his career now and will likely push that average up to 100+ this year. Great value at the $638k price.

N JONES $734k Midfielder - Keeper
Another tough Demons on baller who has given his heart & soul for the club over the last decade and more.
Has been through all the tough times but is now part of an elite on ball division that will have a real shot at the Premiership this season.
Turns 30 this year but hasn't shown any signs of slowing down and averaged 104 last year with 10 tons from 16 games.
What a great pick up he is at that price and he will never give you a bad game. Very close to being a must have.

D TYSON $631k Midfielder - Keeper
If Viney, Oliver and Jones bring the toughness, Tyson brings the class. A silky on baller with a 90 point average who had 5 tons from his 19 games last season. Did have a high of 146 last season but the knock on him is whilst he is consistent he doesn't go real big often enough. Thus you get a discount price of $631k which is about the right price for him.

FORWARDS
A NEALE-BULLEN $571k Forward - Keeper
Had his break out year last season in what was his 3rd at the level. Played the 19 games for an 81 average and the 5 tons.
Demonstrated he has quite a high ceiling with a 141 last year and will only be improved heading into his 4th season.
Is not cheap at $571k but could very well end the season as one of the highest Fantasy scoring forwards.
Worth considering that's for sure.

DUAL POSITION
T MCDONALD $557k Defender/Forward - Keeper
Has turned into a great leader and footballer for the Demons. Had a strong 79 point average last year and is given dual position Defender/Forward which is really handy for Fantasy Coaches.
He scored 100+ five times last year with a high of 116 and is good value for the $557k price tag.

A BRAYSHAW $462k Defender/Midfielder - Keeper Cow
Like his brother Andrew who just went to Freo with the number 2 draft pick, Angus himself was also a high 1st round pick and was taken at number 3 in the 2014 Draft.
Brayshaw has played 36 games in whole but has had 3 pretty injury riddled years at the Demons owing largely to concussion issues which threatened his career.
The reason he makes this list other than the very handy Defender dual position he has, was what I saw from him upon his return for the last 5 games in 2017.
A helmet wearing Brayshaw put up 80's scores in 4 of those games and looked the best I'd ever seen him at the level. Now his concussion issues look to be behind him we may start seeing the player the football world rated as the 3rd best kid in the country in 2014. $462k is a steep price tag for what he has produced thus far but given his upside is enormous, it is a risk I am willing to take.

Since returning to the field with a helmet his form was great. Hopefully he keeps wearing it

C PETRACCA $500k Midfield/Forward - Keeper Cow
What a star in the making this youngster is. The Demons couldn't read his name out quick enough in the 2014 draft when they got him at Pick 2 after the Saints caused a mini shock by taking McCartin ahead of him.
Missed his first year of football due to an ACL injury before making is debut in 2016 where he would go on to play 17 games.
Last season he further cemented his spot in the Demons best 22 by establishing himself as a powerful half forward flanker who can have stints on the ball.
He really is an all round player, given he is hard, strong, explosive, can take a mark and is a powerful kick.
Can still be a little inconsistent thus the 71 point average but he is nowhere near the peak of his powers just yet.
This could be the season he really breaks out and at $500k could be a steal.

H BALIC $346k Midfield/Forward - Cash Cow
Was pick 38 by Freo in the 2015 Draft and I remember thinking what a steal that was as he was a classy player in the Under 18s for Vic Metro and looked a star in the making. Was never settled in WA and eventually home sickness led him to being traded to the Demons in the off season.
Played the 4 games last season and had a 91 + a 73 in there that reminded me of his class.
Looked comfortable at the level and now he is back in his home state he could easily push his way into the Demons best 22 given he offers them a different sort of Midfielder to the real physical inside ball winners they possess.
Like Tyson he could add that class on the outside that is needed, not that Balic is shy of winning his own ball either.
Keep a close eye on his JLT series as he could be really good Cash Cow despite the ludicrous price tag of $346k.
I really have no idea where AFL Fantasy pulled that figure from, he should be around the $250k mark at most.

J SMITH $170k Defender/Midfielder - Cash Cow
Played just the 3 games in his debut season before shoulder surgery ended his season early but got a taste of it at least.
Is highly rated at the Demons and son of a club champion Shaun Smith who was a gun Full Forward in the 90s for them.
Is extremely athletic and can take a big mark like his Dad. At the bottom price of $170k, keep an eye out for him in the JLT as he could be a nice money making Cash Cow.

MUST HAVE:

M HIBBERD $652k Defender - Must Have Keeper
Missed the whole 2016 season due to ASADA suspension and by his own admission didn't keep himself in the best of shape. Left Essendon because of the scandal, goes to the Demons and finishes the 2017 season an All Australian.
Wow, I knew he was good and all but that's very impressive.
18 games in 2017 for a 93 point average and 8 tons which is very impressive for a Fantasy Defender. Is a must have for all Fantasy backlines this year

C OLIVER $715k Midfielder - Must Have Keeper/Absolute Bargain
Has wasted no time establishing himself as elite on baller and was high up in the Brownlow Market in only his 2nd season of footy.
Had a incredibly consistent season for such a young player and finished the year with a 102 point average.
Oliver also had 9 tons with a high of 135 and a further 11 games in the 90's. Imagine what he will achieve in his 3rd year! At $715k he is an absolute bargain. Hard to leave him out

M GAWN $605k Ruck - Must Have Keeper/Absolute Bargain
Whilst I lean towards Grundy being the best Ruck option this year I will end up giving Gawn the nod in my team ahead of him given the $605k price tag is insanely good value. The discount is owed largely to the injury Max had last year which cost him a large chunk of time and affected his form when he got back.
Gawn did play 13 games for a respectable 86 point average. Just the 3 tons but a 140 game in there as a reminder of his high ceiling, but he can do much more.
If you look back to his 2016 season you will see "the beard" as he is affectionately known was a weapon of mass destruction in the Ruck and boasted a 107 point average. That season had 15 games over 100 with 4 in the 140's and another at 138. He will be 1st picked Ruck in a lot of Fantasy teams this year.

Expect to see "the beard" back to his best this year

J HOGAN $499k Forward - Absolute Bargain
Hogan only played 10 games last season and that was a miraculous effort considering what he went through.
Firstly in April last year Hogan's father tragically passed away. Testament to the strength of the man he was back playing a couple of weeks later.
Then in May he was diagnosed with testicular cancer. Naturally he made a full recovery from that and was was back
playing a month later because he is a frekin Terminator.
Then in July be broke his collarbone, like he hadn't gone through enough! Of course he recovered and made it back for the last 2 games but it wasn't enough to get the Dee's into the Finals and they were just pipped at the post by West Coast.
Hogan himself still managed a 71 average with a couple of tons in there for a high of 118.
This bloke is a superstar key forward make no mistake and tough as guts physically and mentally. He is just the sort of player that can put the whole club on his shoulders and carry them deep into September in 2018. I expect an average of between 90 to 100 and he will give his owners some huge weeks. He has had a full pre season and is due a change in fortune, get him in.

Avoid Like the Plague:

B VINCE $549k Defender
Has been so consistent for the Demons since coming across from Adelaide and has ended up being a terrific trade for them. Will still be able to do some great defensive jobs in 2018 for the Demons and everyone would remember the tagging job he did on Sloane last season where he toweled him up.
However he is no longer a good option for Fantasy coaches given he is turning 33 this year and his average score has already slipped to 78 per game.
Had 10 games under 70 last year and you just can't pay $550k for that sort of return.

J LEWIS $626k Midfielder
Champion Hawk Premiership Midfielder who is tough as nails and a terrific user of the football. Moved to Melbourne in the 2016 off season in one of the most surprising trades in recent memory.
Played the 19 games and had a 89 point average so all in all was good. Also had the 8 tons to show he has still got it but the 100 point average days are well and truly behind him. Turns 32 this year and has lost a yard of pace which is especially bad for Lewis given he was never quick to begin with. Would be way too risky to pay $626k for him so avoid.

DEFENDERS
R TARRANT $512k Defender - Keeper
Had an average of 73 last year in what wasn't his best dream team scoring season. $512k is probably a bit too much for him to be honest but I can say the ball will be in the Kangaroos backline a lot this year so he will have plenty of chances to get touches and take marks which is his specialty.

MIDFIELD
S HIGGENS $665k Midfielder - Keeper
Adds some much needed class to the Kangaroos team and has shrugged off the injuries that plagued him early in his career.
A 94 point average with 8 tons. You get what you pay for with Higgens and he never seems to play a bad game even when the team struggles.

J ZIEBELL $662k Midfielder - Keeper
Hard as nails high possession winning Midfielder who really is a Footballers Footballer.
Solid 94 point average with the 8 tons, he is another one who will give you great value for what you pay for him.

RUCK
B PREUSS $445k Ruck - Keeper Cow
Preuss is a hyper aggressive cult hero at North and built like a Nazi Stormtrooper on steroids.
I pity any ruckmen that come up against him this season as he is only going to be bigger and stronger now.
He played just the 8 games in his 1st season and had a couple of tons to show what he can do.
Probably has the number 1 Ruck spot for now but could lose it at any moment if Goldstein gets his body right and returns to his best. Only worth the money if it is clear after the JLT series that he is their number 1 Ruck choice.

Kanga's number 1 Ruck this year? I hope so, for entertainment value alone

FORWARDS
B BROWN $509k Forward - Keeper
What a season Brown had at full forward finishing 3rd in the Coleman medal in a struggling side. He is a deadly accurate kick and a strong mark. He times his leads perfectly and just does all the basics really well all the time.
He had a 72 point average and a couple of tons last year and the $509k price is about right considering he should be even better this year.

T GARNER $496k Forward - Keeper Cow
A positive in a poor season for North as Garner looks to be a real player in the making. Had his break through season playing 18 games with an average of 70.
His finish to the season is what is really exciting. In his 6 games he had a high of 129 and 4 more in the 80's which looks an indication of whats to come.
Will be improved with another pre season under his belt and if he continues that form into the JLT Series he will have to be strongly considered at a touch under $500k.

M WOOD $458k Forward - Keeper Cow
One of the few youngster on the list coming through that I think can be a real star. Has been injury prone sadly in his 4 seasons with North and only shown glimpses so far. One of those was his Round 7 127 score against a strong Crows back line. He has got his body right and is having a full pre season so this could be the year he explodes.
If he does you will absolutely clean up for your $458k. Worth watching his form in the JLT Series and deciding from there.

DUAL POSITION
L MCDONALD $603k Defender/Midfielder - Keeper
Another positive for North in a tough year was the continued development of this highly rated youngster.
He was a Father Son selection that was so highly rated in the 2013 draft, that they had to match with their 1st round pick to take him at 8.
His progress in his first 3 seasons with the Kanga's was steady but last year was his break out season.
A real solid average of 86 with 5 tons and a further 5 in the 90's makes him a highly valuable Defender in Fantasy. $603k is a very reasonable price too and given he has further improvement left in him, could be a real bargain.

MUST HAVE:

L DAVIES-UNIACKE $264k Midfielder - Must Have Cash Cow
One of the best Cash Cow options of 2018 given he will slot straight into a young rebuilding Kangaroos team.
The number 4 pick overall in last years Draft was in the argument for number 1 all the way up until the last few days.
A contested ball king in under 18s and arriving at the club was already a physically ready 187cm and 85kg. Is going to be a powerful Midfielder for the club in time and I can't wait to see how he goes in the JLT Series.

The future of the Kanga's Midfield looks brighter after the recruitment of this guy

Avoid Like the Plague:

The Rest of the North Melbourne Football Club.
Just kidding Kanga's fans, I'm sure there will be a few that come out of the woodworks for you this season and put up their hands. A couple of nice kids in Simpkin and Mountford were stiff to not make the list.

J WAITE $536k Forward
How exactly did he get a contract to go on another year in a rebuilding North Melbourne side that already has Ben Brown, Mason Wood and Majak Daw to play the tall forward roles? Turns 35 this year and only managed 10 games last season to go with 14 the year before that.
Yes he is a gun forward no doubt and he scores well but if you pick him you will only get limited use not to mention every game he plays you will be sweating on the early injury wrecking his score. Avoid

DEFENDERS
J PITTARD $541k Defender - Keeper
Exciting Defender who can win plenty of the ball and likes to take them on. Can be a touch inconsistent which is a worry given the quite high price tag but his average of 77 for a Defender gets him on this list as one that is worth considering.

D HOUSTON $511k Defender - Keeper
What a story this guy was as was overlooked in the 2016 draft before Port took him in the Rookie Draft. He went on to play 16 games for the season with a 73 point average. Neat and tidy disposal and knows how to get the Football.
He offers the Power good rebound and marking power off that half back line. I expect him to cement a spot in the best 22 this year and further improve that average. Keep an eye on him in the JLT series.

H HARTLETT $496k Defender - Keeper
Looked a star in the making with a booming right foot that has deadly precision. Expected to be a Midfielder he looks to of now settled on the Half Back Flank where can set up the play. The problem for Hartlett is the opposition are very wary of the damage his foot skills can do and look to shut him down at all costs.
This was a contributing factor in one of his worst seasons Fantasy wise last year and his average of just 70 has seen his value drop. If he can get back to his best that $496k would be a bargain but it is a big if.
Will be interesting to see how he looks in the JLT series.

MIDFIELD
S POWELL PEPPER $492k Midfielder - Keeper Cow
What a beast this guy is going to be. Taken at pick 18 in the 2016 Draft he was already monstering opponents around the ball with his huge frame and is only going to be stronger after a another pre season.
Is an explosive player with a booming kick who knows how to find it. Played 21 games in his debut season and had an average of 70 with a high of 112. Will be a star of the future and may end up the best pick 18 in a Draft of all time.
He is worth the $492k given the scary amount of improvement we can expect this year.

What a beast this guy is going to be

S MOTLOP $489k Midfielder - Keeper Cow
One of 2 great Free Agency swoops by the Power Motlop's pace is just what this team needs especially on the wide expanses of Adelaide Oval.
Is an often maligned player who is accused of not working hard enough at times but there is no doubting his talent.
After being very flat and having a dismal 9 games leading into finals Motlop looked to have 1 foot out the door already.
To his credit her turned it on in the Cats finals series and was one of their best players.
Overall his average of 70 for 2017 was poor thus his discounted price tag. Now he has got a fresh start at a new club I expect to see more of the Motlop from the Finals Series of last year and less of the inconsistent Motlop. Will greatly improve on that average and worth the punt for $489k.

RUCK
P RYDER $646k Ruck - Keeper
Paddy Ryder was rewarded for his excellent season with his first All Australian Guernsey. Ryder last year averaged 92 a game with 6 tons in what was his most consistent season to date. No reason why he can't replicate that this year and he is right up there in the Fantasy Ruck conversation for 2018.

FORWARDS
S GRAY $577k Forward - Keeper
I wouldn't call it a break out year as he had already shown the footy world he could play but last season was definitely his most consistent.
He is more of a Midfielder than a Forward so it's handy that AFL Fantasy has given him the Forward status for 2018. Expect an upgrade to dual position Midfield at some point. Gray played 22 games last season for an average of 82. Had the 6 tons as well so offers great value for that price to any Fantasy owners Forward line.

C DIXON $570k Forward - Keeper
The powerful Full Forward has always looked a star in the making but last year was the first time he really put a consistent season together.
Had an average of 81 with 5 100+ games. Look for him to be even better this year with the strong Power Midfield delivering him the ball.

T MARSHALL $254k - Cash Cow
Surprisingly broke into the Power team in Round 22 and held his spot to play in their Elimination Final.
Despite his skinny frame he showed some real glimpses of quality and I can see why he was a 1st Round selection in the 2016 Draft (pick 16).
If he can add a bit of bulk to that frame and continue to improve, he could become a valuable side kick to Charlie Dixon in that Power Forward line. Definite Cash Cow chance so keep an eye on him in the JLT series.

DUAL POSITION
C WINGARD $649k Midfield/Forward - Keeper
A mercurial Forward who can also play on the ball which makes him a very valuable target for AFL Fantasy coaches' Forward lines. He boasts a 92 point average and went over the 100 five times last year with a high of 141. Wingard is already a star but can still take it to another level this year.

T BOAK $643k Midfield/Forward - Keeper
The fact he is a Forward this year in Fantasy gives him tremendous value. Had a 91 point average with 7 tons last season.
He had a high of 153 to show he still has the odd massive one in him. Can put up the odd shocker as well but all in all he is worth the $643 price tag and would be a valuable addition to any Fantasy team Forward line.

MUST HAVE:

T ROCKLIFFE $725k Midfielder - Must Have Keeper/Absolute Bargain
The Fantasy Pig as he is affectionately known given he has always been an extremely high Dream Team scorer and at one stage was the number 1 Fantasy scorer in the game.
His last season at the Lions he was carrying a dodgy shoulder which meant more time rested forward for less points and thus the nice discounted price we all get on him this year.
He has now taken up a Free Agency offer to join Port Adelaide and is reportedly enjoying a good pre season.
Expect to see him back in the midfield full time and replicating his 2016 season numbers which were:
117 point average, 13 tons from 17 games with a 184 and 179 game.
Still only 27 and in his prime Rocky is an absolute steal at $725k.

Going to be strange seeing Rocky in a Port jumper this season

R GRAY $572k Forward - Keeper
Robbie Gray is one of the Superstars of the competition and showed again why last season. Seemed to be hampered by a groin injury straight from the get go in 2017 so he played mainly as a stay at home Forward. Whilst the Power missed his class on the ball, his affect on the Forward line was devastating.
Gray was a constant menace for opposition Defences and caused them to even resort to double teaming him at times to try and minimise his damage. Gray finished the season with 47 goals and an average of 81. Imagine what he will kick this year as a Forward now he is fully fit?
We will never know as he will be back spending more time as a Midfielder in 2018 which is great news for Fantasy coaches as you can buy him at a bargain price of $572k.
It is worth noting that Gray was treated for Testicular Cancer in October last year and had to have a small round of chemo which was precautionary. He is back in full training now and it is not expected to hinder his 2018 season at all.

One of the stars of the competition

B EBERT $724k Midfielder - Must Have Keeper
A classy and consistent Midfielder, Ebert enjoyed on of his best seasons ever. Averaged 103 points per game with 13 tons. Had a high of 149 and only went under 80 three times. Is part of a very strong Power Midfield so will be hard for opposition taggers to hone in on him alone so expect him to go about his business and put up similar numbers to last year.

O WINES $703k Midfielder - Must Have Keeper
What a jet this guy is. He just seems to get better every year and is entering his prime now. Extremely strong in the contest and legs like tree trunks, Wines averaged 100 points a game last season with 14 tons. Not as prolific as some of the other elite midfielders but $703k is real unders and he is a must have at that price.

Avoid Like the Plague:

M BROADBENT $486k Defender
Been a great servant for the club and for Fantasy owners over the year but getting older now.
Last year saw a drop off in form and injuries. Already reports of a hamstring injury having him in doubt for Round 1.
Just not enough upside for the $486k price tag on him.

J WESTHOFF $585k Midfield/Forward
Not sure where the Midfield part comes from but he does seem to roam up and down the ground. Defender/Forward would probably of been a more accurate representation and might of made him better value at the $585k price tag.
Unfortunately he is just not worth that money any more and turning 32 this year. He still managed a respectable 83 average but if you look at his last 7 games his high was only 84 and 5 were under the 80 mark including a 49. It may be an indication of the decline to come.
Avoid

Thanks for reading and keep an eye out over the next day or so for Part 4

-Dahmsy