The Eagles have just endured one of their worst ever seasons, something the historically successful club will be desperate to correct. The club finds itself at a crossroads though, having competed in finals for years, their descent was as quick as it was surprising.
There's no doubting COVID and injuries absolutely destroyed their start to the season and from there it was impossible to recover. However, there are some worrying signs at West Coast, particularly with some star players.
Legendary forward Josh Kennedy has called time, while the end is surely not far away for Shannon Hurn, Luke Shuey and Jeremy McGovern. These names will be almost impossible to replace quickly, but it's the task the Eagles face.
The Eagles will likely look to add depth in the key position areas, while a small forward or outside midfielder wouldn't go astray either.
With that in mind, let's take a look at five possible targets for West Coast this off-season.
4. Darcy Gardiner
With McGovern nearing the end of his playing days and battling multiple injuries, a play for a tall defender makes sense. While it wouldn't be easy to convince a player who (at time of writing) is playing in a preliminary final to leave for a club near the bottom, stranger things have happened.
Should Gardiner go on to win a flag with the Lions this season, the 26-year-old could be tempted by big money offers elsewhere as an unrestricted free agent. At 194cm, he has been a consistent presence for the Lions during his 153-game career to date.
During his 2022 seasons so far, Gardiner has averaged 4.5 marks a game and 2.4 rebound 50's. While that wouldn't quite replace the likes of McGovern, a steady hand down back with Tom Barass would provide a great foundation for the rebuilding Eagles.
He could be a perfect mentor for young Eagles Harry Edwards and Rhett Bazzo until they can cement themselves at AFL level.
