In a dramatic turn of events during the 2024 AFL Trade Period, Dan Houston has officially joined Collingwood as part of a significant three-club deal that has sent shockwaves through the league.
The complex trade, which involves multiple players and draft picks, was finalised after earlier negotiations fell apart, leaving Houston's future in limbo for several hours.
According to AFL reporter Cal Twomey, discussions regarding the trade heated up today after initial talks stalled last night.
The key elements of the trade are as follows:
Collingwood: Acquires Dan Houston and pick 58.
Gold Coast: Receives John Noble, a future first-round pick from Port Adelaide, a future first-round pick from Collingwood, and pick 39.
Port Adelaide: Gains Jack Lukosius, Joe Richards, Rory Atkins, and picks 13, 29, 36, and 50.
View the full updated 2024 AFL Draft order HERE.
The deal comes after a previous proposal that nearly fell through when Port Adelaide initially withdrew, threatening to send Houston to North Melbourne instead.
However, after reconsidering their options, the Power agreed to the revised deal, emphasising their need to secure a satisfactory return for Houston, who has been a standout performer and an All-Australian selection in recent seasons.
It is now understood that there are no differences in the deal to the initial offer presented to Port Adelaide on Monday night, only that the Power have now accepted it, leaving fans and pundits alike scratching their heads.
So we didnโt know it last night, but pick 50 to Port was actually included then.
Two sources directly involved with this trade say itโs the identical deal to the one Port rejected less than 24 hours ago. ๐คฃ
Regardless, itโs done. โ @FootyonNine @traderadio https://t.co/0fAnW0ILBO
— Tom Morris (@tommorris32) October 15, 2024
Houston's addition to Collingwood bolsters their defensive lineup significantly. The 28-year-old has been a pivotal piece at Port Adelaide, controlling a relatively lacklustre backline in recent seasons.
Port Adelaide's strategy also appears shrewd as they acquire high-profile talent in Lukosius and secure a treasure trove of draft picks, enhancing their future prospects.
Meanwhile, Gold Coast's acquisition of John Noble adds depth to their defense as they continue to reshape their squad for the upcoming season, with hopes of adding Dan Rioli also.
