West Coast Eagles 2024 AFL Draft Preview: A Pivotal Moment

The 2024 AFL Draft is upon us, and for the West Coast Eagles, it represents a pivotal moment in their rebuilding journey. After an active trade period that saw them both gain and lose senior players, the Eagles find themselves with pick 12 – a significant drop from their initial pick three. However, this isn't necessarily a setback; the depth of talent in this year's draft means that even outside the top 10, the Eagles can still acquire players of significant value.

Evaluating the Eagles' Draft Strategy

The Eagles' trade choices have left them with pick 12, along with picks 26, 72, 77, 87, and 92. This presents a strategic dilemma: do they consolidate their current picks, potentially trading up to improve their position, or do they use their stockpile of future picks to their advantage? With additional first, second, and third-round picks from Hawthorn for the 2025 draft already in their possession, the Eagles have considerable leverage for potential live trades. The decision will hinge on the players still available at pick 12 and the Eagles' assessment of their long-term rebuilding needs.

Analyzing Pick 12

Pick 12 puts the Eagles in a position to secure a highly talented prospect. While top West Australian prospect Bo Allan might be a tempting option – a player known for his strong performances with Peel Thunder – the Eagles' focus will likely center around several key areas. They may prioritize players such as Joe Berry, renowned for his speed and offensive prowess. They might also target the Victorian trio of Tobie Travaglia, Xavier Lindsay (known for outside run and midfield potential) and Taj Hotton, an athletic midfielder/forward whose ACL tear hampered his season.

Assessing the Remaining Picks

With their later picks, the Eagles possess options to bolster their list across multiple positions. Pick 26 could be pivotal, allowing them to target local talent like key forward/ruck Kayle Gerreyn or utility forward Hamish Davis. Adding tall defensive support is also a potential priority, with Noah Mraz being a possible candidate. Alternatively, they might opt for a 'best available' approach, selecting someone like Cooper Hynes, another rising star from the Dandenong Stingrays.

The Role of Future Picks

The acquisition of future picks from Hawthorn significantly impacts the Eagles' approach. They can use these assets to increase their leverage in live trades to move up or down the draft order, or they can accumulate additional selections. The decision of whether to package pick 26 or split its value is crucial in determining the Eagles' final draft haul.

The Next Generation Academy (NGA) Factor

The Eagles also have to consider their NGA prospect, Malakai Champion, a lively small forward who could attract a late bid. West Coast may match any bid to secure him, or they could add him to their rookie list if he remains unselected. Looking beyond this draft, the Eagles have other NGA members and father-son prospects to consider, including Wesley Walley, Koby Evans, and Charlie Banfield (son of Drew Banfield) to keep in mind for the future, potentially influencing their use of those future selections.

Addressing Key Needs: A Three-Pronged Approach

West Coast's list presents distinct needs. A dynamic midfielder to strengthen the engine room, a key defender to shore up the backline in light of Tom Barrass's departure, and a forward spark to inject more creativity and goals into the attack, will be key areas of focus.

Dynamic Midfielder

The Eagles' midfield requires depth and versatility. The addition of Harley Reid, Reuben Ginbey, and Elijah Hewett in previous drafts are promising additions, but adding a further player who is able to offer a point of difference or some versatility in the midfield may be what is needed. This year's draft class offers a wealth of strong on-ballers.

Key Defender

Tom Barrass's departure has created a significant void in the Eagles' defensive setup. Finding a tall defender who can develop into a long-term replacement for Jeremy McGovern will be crucial for the future. They must address the glaring vulnerabilities in the backline, given that the Eagles were without Barrass and McGovern at times last season and the resulting effects were quite obvious.

Forward Spark

The Eagles' forward line needs more firepower. The addition of Matt Owies offers hope, but competition is needed. More ground-level threats could provide the spark and support that is needed.

The Verdict: A Balanced Approach

The Eagles' success in the 2024 AFL Draft hinges on a balanced approach. While targeting elite talent with pick 12 is vital, shrewd management of their future picks and NGA assets will be equally important. Ultimately, the Eagles’ strategy must reflect their commitment to a long-term rebuild, balancing immediate needs with future potential. It's an exciting time for the club, filled with the promise of fresh talent and a brighter future.

The Eagles' decision-making process will involve many factors and considerations, including player availability, scouting reports, and the club’s overall strategic objectives. The successful navigation of this draft will significantly impact the trajectory of the Eagles’ next era under coach Andrew McQualter. The draft will be an exciting event that will be followed very closely by many fans and experts alike. This is going to be a crucial draft for the Eagles.