On trading for Pick 4...
“There’s probably a number of reasons – one being clearly how highly we rate the top end of the draft and the types of players that will be there aligned to our needs. Also just taking into consideration bids that are going to come in this draft for Academy kids, father-sons and Free Agency compensation, and where our two first-rounders in particular this year would’ve landed.
“I think everyone talks about similar names – the thing about this draft though is there are a mix of types at the top end. There’s a few midfielders, there’s a bit of speed, there’s some good utility players that are versatile and have got some real talent – I think we’ve landed in a really good spot where we’ll have access to a really good player. The next month we’ll work through exactly who that is.”
On Jordan Croft...
“He comes into the consideration no doubt. The physical nomination (period) is still some time away, so we’ll work through that with Jordan over the next period of time. We’re really keen – all things being equal – to get Jordan into the Club.”
On Bailey Smith...
“Bailey Smith’s name hasn’t been raised by anyone this Trade Period. We really rate Bailey and want him at the Club long-term. He’s so valuable for us.
“Nothing is going to happen this Trade Period. I know there is a lot of speculation and intrigue, but he hasn’t been raised in any conversations. We wouldn’t entertain it anyway.”
On Aaron Naughton’s eight-year contract extension...
“Aaron’s a fantastic player and has been in our leadership group for a couple of years now. He’s only 23 years old too, which everyone forgets. To have him locked away long-term is just amazing for the Club. It really allows Aaron now to focus on 2024 and beyond.”
On Nick Coffield requesting a trade to the Kennel...
“We’ll assess all that over the next little bit – obviously Nick has indicated he’d like to come to the Bulldogs, so we’ll continue the chats with St Kilda and Stephen Silvagni over that.
“He’s versatile and can play on different types of opponents, and can intercept the ball. We obviously have to work through it over the next one-and-a-half weeks to agree to a trade.”
