In the world of fantasy football, the AFL Fantasy stocktake is a crucial exercise for coaches and managers. It's a chance to assess the performance of players, make strategic decisions about trades, and optimize lineups for the upcoming rounds. This week, we delve into the numbers, analyze the trends, and offer our expert commentary on who to buy and sell.
One player who has been on fire is John Noble (DEF, $1,043,000). His recent scores of 126, 135, and 144, followed by a season-high 146 against the Lions, have solidified his place as a top defender. Noble's impressive 36 disposals and 15 marks against a seemingly difficult match-up showcase his consistency and ability to impact the game. With a BE of 90, Noble is a player who should be on every coach's radar.
Sam Durham (FWD/MID, $692,000) is another player who has caught the eye. Despite the Bombers' loss to Carlton, Durham's performance was exceptional, collecting 30 disposals, 10 marks, and a goal for a season-best 132 points. With a BE of just 57, Durham is a popular target for coaches looking to boost their forward line and midfield depth.
Jordan Dawson (MID, $1,114,000) continues to be a force to be reckoned with. His third score above 130 in the past four games, built on 22 disposals, seven marks, nine tackles, and three goals, has inspired the Crows to victory. With a BE of 94, Dawson is a player who should be considered for any lineup, especially with a tough match-up against the Dogs before opening up with games against the Dees, Power, Eagles, and Suns.
Tom McCarthy (DEF, $878,000) and Lachie McAndrew (RUC, $790,000) are also worth noting. McCarthy's impressive 130 points and McAndrew's season-high 128 points, featuring a dominant 51 hitouts, showcase their ability to impact the game in different ways. While McCarthy's fixture opens up with games against the Saints, McAndrew's run of games against the Pies, Crows, Roos, and Saints makes him a player to watch.
However, there are also players who are worth selling. Dan Houston (DEF, $783,000) has cooled dramatically after a hot start to the season, averaging just 71 points in his last five games. With a BE of 110, Houston is a prime candidate to trade out, perhaps to a Giant. Similarly, Sam Walsh (MID, $915,000) has reached triple figures on just one occasion in the last six weeks, with a BE of 106. Despite his high profile, Walsh's performance has been inconsistent, making him a player to consider selling.
Jagga Smith (FWD/MID, $738,000) and Nic Newman (DEF, $849,000) are also worth considering for trades. Smith's price tag of $508k this season and a BE of 82 following a disappointing 57 against the Bombers make him an attractive option for upgrades. Newman, on the other hand, has only reached triple figures on one occasion in the last five weeks, which is not enough for a defender premium. His BE of 95 is not encouraging, and he may be a player to consider selling.
In conclusion, the AFL Fantasy stocktake is a critical exercise for coaches and managers. By analyzing the numbers, identifying trends, and making strategic decisions, coaches can optimize their lineups and maximize their chances of success. While some players are worth buying, others may be worth selling, depending on their performance and fixture. As always, it's important to stay up-to-date with the latest news and trends, and to make informed decisions based on your specific team needs and goals.
