Bailey Smith Requests Trade From Western Bulldogs: Geelong Expected To Be Destination
Days after the Western Bulldogs' season ended, injured midfielder Bailey Smith has officially told the club he wants to be traded. Smith, who starred during the Dogs' run to the 2021 grand final, was forced to sit out this entire season after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament at training in December.
The 23-year-old's future has been a talking point all season, with it becoming clearer the longer the season went on that he wanted out of the Whitten Oval.
As the Bulldogs began exit meetings on Monday following Friday night's elimination final defeat to Hawthorn, the club confirmed via a three-line statement that Smith had asked to be traded. The Bulldogs said Smith had not nominated his club of preference.
Why Geelong? The Cats' First Round Pick is Key
While Smith hasn't officially nominated a club, reports suggest he is leaning towards Geelong. This move, however, hinges on the Cats' draft position. Geelong's first-round pick will be at the earliest No.15 - and that's before bids on Ashcroft, Lombard & potentially a Battle compensation pick push it back. If Cats win the flag, it could be pick 21. What gets the Bailey Smith deal done? Smith not nominated a club but Cats loom.
The Bulldogs will be looking for a substantial return for Smith, given his immense talent and proven ability to influence games. They will be aiming for a pick that reflects his potential and the value he brings to the team. This makes Geelong's draft position a critical factor in the trade negotiations.
More Than Just Money: Smith's Motivations
Smith's decision to leave the Bulldogs is not solely driven by money. While he is one of the most marketable players in the AFL, he is also looking for a new challenge and a fresh start.
It's been suggested that Smith is seeking a change of scenery and a chance to play in a winning environment. Geelong's recent success and their ability to develop young talent make them an attractive destination for Smith.
Furthermore, Smith has been linked to Geelong for months. A source close to the situation revealed that Geelong has been the frontrunner for Smith's services for a significant period.
What Happens Next
The trade period officially opens on October 10, and the Bulldogs will be working diligently to ensure they are fairly compensated for Smith. The Bulldogs will be looking for a significant return for Smith, given his immense talent and potential. While the Cats are the expected destination, it remains to be seen how the negotiations will play out.
It's a complex situation with many factors in play, but one thing is clear: Bailey Smith is a highly sought-after player, and his trade will be one of the biggest stories of the AFL off-season. We'll be keeping a close eye on developments and reporting back to you as they unfold.
The End of an Era?
While Smith's departure from the Bulldogs will be a loss for the club, it could be the start of a new chapter for the 23-year-old. The Cats are a team with a proven track record of success, and they could provide Smith with the platform he needs to reach his full potential. If he does indeed move to Geelong, it will be interesting to see how he adapts to a new environment and how he fits into a team that already boasts a number of star players.
This trade request marks the end of an era for the Western Bulldogs, who have been trying to rebuild their roster after their 2021 grand final loss. The departure of a star player like Smith will be a blow, but it is also a sign of the club's commitment to a long-term plan.
Whether Smith's move to Geelong is successful remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure: the 23-year-old is a talented player with a bright future. He is a player who is capable of reaching new heights, and his trade will be a story to watch throughout the upcoming trade period and beyond.
