Adelaide have emerged as a premiership contender in 2023 thanks to their trusted development in high-end draftees, trade recruitment and reliable veterans that are steering Matthew Nicks' side toward September.
The South Australian side is home to one of the younger lists in the competition and looks to be getting stronger as the year goes on, however there are areas the Crows could consider to bolster for 2024.
In the first part of our club-by-club AFL trade targets series, we've taken a look at the potential off-contract players Adelaide could look to attract to West Lakes
The Crows have flagged their interest in South Australian talent that could be made available this off-season, and that's the path we've taken in assessing their potential trade targets in 2023.
3. Josh Carmichaelย
With the Crows continuing to add youth and edge to their exciting squad, Carmichael would fit the bill as a cheaper option that can add selection pressure across Matthew Nicks' midfield and attacking thirds.
Carmichael was drafted out of West Adelaide through last year's Mid-Season Draft off the back of a scintillating campaign in the SANFL with the Bloods, however he's since found opportunities hard to come by in 2023 due to the rise and shift among Craig McRae's all-star midfield pack.
The 23-year-old has played in just one game under McRae this year, coming into the Magpies' Round 8 clash with Richmond as the tactical sub.
Midfielder
Disposals
Goals
Clearances
Carmichael has performed exceptionally at VFL level as he looks to break into the senior side at Olympic Park, averagingย 21.7 disposals, 4.5 clearances, 4.4 clearances and 1.1 goals per game this year.
Able to play an attacking inside midfield role and rotate as a deeper forward threat, Carmichael could be a bargain buy for the Crows given his expiring contract.
