AFL Trade Period Heats Up with Key Player Movements

The AFL trade period is in full swing, with several high-profile players considering moves to new clubs. Tom Barrass of the West Coast Eagles and Jack Lukosius of the Gold Coast Suns are among the stars generating significant interest from rival teams.

West Coast Eagles Star Tom Barrass Likely to Leave for Hawthorn

Tom Barrass, the 28-year-old West Coast Eagles premiership player and club champion, is increasingly likely to leave the club and join Hawthorn. Despite being contracted until 2027, Barrass is understood to be eager to accept a five-year deal from the Hawks, a Victorian contender. The Eagles would need to facilitate a trade for Barrass to make the move.

Barrass Eager to Sign Long-Term Deal with Hawks

According to reports, Barrass is keen to sign a long-term, five-year contract with Hawthorn. The 2022 Eagles best and fairest winner has been one of the club’s standout players in recent years but has struggled with injuries, never playing more than 19 games in a single season. The Hawks, who hold the 17th pick in the upcoming draft, would need to get creative to satisfy West Coast in a potential trade deal for Barrass.

Gold Coast’s Jack Lukosius Meets with Adelaide Coach Matthew Nicks

In another potential trade move, Gold Coast Suns star Jack Lukosius has met with Adelaide Crows coach Matthew Nicks, fueling speculation about a potential move to the South Australian club. Lukosius, the No. 2 pick in the 2018 draft, appears to have fallen out of favor at the Suns and could be seeking a fresh start. The 195cm 24-year-old is contracted until the end of 2026.

Suns Star Considering Trade to Crows

Lukosius’ meeting with Nicks on the Gold Coast last week suggests he may be interested in reuniting with former draft classmate Izak Rankine, who was recently traded to Adelaide. A potential move for Lukosius could help the Suns balance their books and acquire additional draft capital, especially if they pursue Richmond’s Daniel Rioli during the trade period.

Injuries Hamper Barrass’ Consistency at West Coast

While Tom Barrass has been a standout performer for the West Coast Eagles, his consistency has been hampered by injuries throughout his career. Despite his talent and accolades, such as winning the club’s best and fairest award in 2022, he has never managed to play more than 19 games in a single season due to recurring injury issues.

Hawks Targeting Multiple Key Defenders in Trade Period

Hawthorn appears to be aggressively pursuing key defensive reinforcements during the trade period. In addition to their reported interest in Tom Barrass, the Hawks are also said to be leading the race for St Kilda’s free agent key defender Josh Battle. Securing both Barrass and Battle would significantly bolster Hawthorn’s defensive stocks.

Lukosius’ Potential Departure Could Help Gold Coast’s Roster Flexibility

If Jack Lukosius does indeed depart the Gold Coast Suns, it could provide the club with greater roster flexibility and additional draft capital. The Suns are rumored to be interested in acquiring Richmond’s Daniel Rioli during the trade period, and offloading Lukosius could help balance their books and facilitate such a move while also providing them with valuable draft picks.