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DONE DEAL: Saints split pick, Brisbane move up draft

Pick swaps have dominated the trade period thus far. Here’s the latest.

Published by
Frank Seal

St Kilda has sent Pick 27 to Brisbane Lions in exchange for Picks 32 and 45.

This latest pick swap, announced by AFL reporter Riley Beveridge, continues the trend across the league of teams jostling for position in what has been dubbed a potential “super draft” this year.

For the Lions, this trade follows an essential acquisition of draft points as they set their sights on highly-touted young prospects, father-son Levi Ashcroft and academy player Sam Marshall, in the upcoming November draft.

Brisbane has been actively accumulating draft points to solidify their standing and ensure they can match bids for these young players. Following recent deals, including trades with Richmond and Carlton, Brisbane's draft capital has been significantly bolstered.

Football boss Danny Daly recently confirmed that despite various trade talks, the club is focusing on adding points rather than targeting high-profile forwards.

With the draft capital gained during the trade period thus far -  the Lions have secured enough capital to recruit Ashcroft and Marshall, leaving them able to move up the order.

Brisbane Lion Will Ashcroft with brother Levi (Image via Brisbane Lions)

For St Kilda, meanwhile, this swap allows the club to increase its draft assets further, gaining two mid-range picks that could provide more flexibility come draft day.

Already armed with Picks 7 and 8, the Saints have been linked to discussions around top draft prospects, with some speculation they might combine their first-round picks to move up the draft order.

St Kilda's approach this trade period has focused on future talent acquisition, particularly after receiving Pick 8 as compensation for Josh Battle's move to Hawthorn.

Saints' list manager has hinted that the club is primarily focused on draft picks this off-season, rather than trading for established players.

With pick-swapping dominating the AFL landscape, clubs across the league are taking advantage of a deep draft pool, jockeying to ensure they don't miss out on future stars.

However, Western Bulldogs veteran Jack Macrae has made it known of his desire to head to Moorabbin, with either pick likely to be central to a trade.

You can see the full, updated 2024 AFL Draft order here.

Published by
Frank Seal