Prior to going out in the prelims against Geelong, the Giants had a fairly solid season but still didn't seem to be meet the expectations that come with their star-studded lineup.
Despite reaching the finals, their home and away season was a bit hit or miss. The Giants left a lot to be desired and had some incredibly unconvincing performances, although it was fair to say they didnโt have much luck go their way in terms of player fitness and availability.
Hoping to leave their injury and suspension troubles behind them, the Giants have the potential to rediscover their best form from last season in an attempt to finally reach the high expectations the AFL world has set for them, if everything goes according to plan.
Ins: Jarrod Brander [West Coast], Fin Callaghan, Leek Aleer, Josh Fahey, Cooper Hamilton
Outs: Matt Buntine [delisted], Jeremy Finlayson [Port Adelaide], Tom Hutchesson [delisted], Shane Mumford [retired], Sam Reid [delisted], Nick Shipley [delisted]
Weaknesses
Fitness: Injury struggles took a toll on the Giants in 2021, and history has a habit of repeating itself. The Giants need to be very cautious of their player's levels of fitness as well as any injury concerns if theyโre looking to avoid the same issues as last year.
With names such as Coniglio, Pruess, Phil Davis, Matt De Boer, Matt Flynn, Lachlan Keefe, Adam Kennedy and Lachie Whitfield all suffering fairly serious injuries throughout the year, the Giants found it hard to maintain a consistent squad for the majority of the season. Jesse Hogan and Nick Haynes also suffered less serious injuries but remained out for consecutive weeks.
Due to the constant rotation, individual players could not develop any sort of form, and the dynamics of the team were mixed up on a weekly basis. If the same theme continues and GWS fail to build momentum with a consistent lineup, it could be detrimental to the Giants' chances of making the finals.
