Fantasy Forwards: Must-haves, other options, structure, Draft ranks
Feb 12, 2025
auto_awesome
Jake Waterman, an AFL player for the West Coast Eagles known for his stellar goal-kicking and fantasy prowess, joins the discussion. They explore must-have forwards like Jack Macrae and Bailey Smith, and consider emerging talents such as Jason Horne-Francis and Izak Rankine. Waterman shares insights on how the Eagles might dominate the forward line this season. Strategies for navigating draft rankings and selecting key players like Jack Silvagni are also highlighted, ensuring listeners are well-equipped for their fantasy teams.
Jack Macrae, Bailey Smith, and Caleb Daniel are essential inclusions for fantasy teams due to their unique circumstances and roles.
Emerging talents like Riley Sanders and Jack Graham present substantial value as cash cows for fantasy managers this season.
Draft strategies are crucial, highlighting the importance of understanding player values and being adaptable during team selections.
Deep dives
Forward Line Opportunities
The podcast discusses the current landscape of forwards in AFL Fantasy, noting that last year was particularly challenging for players in this position. However, changes in player roles and injuries have opened up new opportunities, making it more exciting this year. Coaches are exploring various combinations and potential players to fill forward slots, with an increasing number of viable options emerging. The discussion highlights a shift from only a few established players to a broader pool of around 14 players that managers can consider for their squads.
Key Player Performances
Key players like Bailey Smith, Caleb Daniel, and Jack McRae are highlighted as critical inclusions for many fantasy teams. Bailey Smith's new midfield role at his club is particularly emphasized, indicating he has a strong potential to perform at a high level due to his historical averages. Caleb Daniel's transition to North Melbourne and his kick-in responsibilities position him as another lock for fantasy managers, while Jack McRae is noted for his past performances, despite his lower ownership rate. Each player's unique circumstances make them attractive options for coaches looking to build competitive teams.
Emerging Talents
Rookies and lesser-known players like Riley Sanders, Elijah Hewitt, and Jack Graham are discussed as emerging talents that could offer substantial value in the current season. Riley Sanders is particularly lauded for his development and strong performances in preseason matches, positioning him as a potential cash cow. Hewitt's presence in the midfield role shows promise for scoring, suggesting he could be a solid addition to many lineups with a favorable price point. Meanwhile, Jack Graham's early-season opportunities are explored, with a belief that he could be a valuable forward option based on his past potential and current role.
Navigating the Mid-Price Players
The podcast addresses the role of mid-priced players, examining how they fit into the broader context of team selections in AFL Fantasy. With a deep pool of players available under the mid-price category, coaches are encouraged to consider a balanced strategy that includes such players. Players like Silvani and Marrick are analyzed, highlighting their positional changes that could lead to significant scoring potential while still maintaining a lower price tag. The conversation suggests that leveraging these mid-price players could balance out the risk involved while building a robust fantasy lineup.
Draft Strategy Insights
Draft strategies are thoroughly examined, emphasizing the importance of understanding player values and positioning. The discussion revolves around the balance of bolstering the forward line with high-potential players while remaining mindful of the overall team structure. Listeners are encouraged to take advantage of late-round draft selections that can significantly impact their team's performance. Additionally, the podcast underscores the need for adaptability during drafts, as player performances and roles can fluctuate leading up to the season, making it vital to stay informed and responsive.
Let's face it, we've all got Jack Macrae, Bailey Smith and Caleb Daniel in our Fantasy Classic sides. But who sits beside them? The Traders chat through who should be F1, where the value lies and the strategy you should look at. They also discuss the draft rankings for the forwards in a position where the numbers fall away quickly.