GWS Giants

Five trade targets for every AFL club: GWS Giants

A versatile Tiger, a Power forward and a trade scenario are among the options for GWS.

Published by

Josh De Sa

The GWS Giants have made huge strides in 2023, making one last finals push to conclude the season. Under Adam Kingsley, the Giants are seemingly on the rise, however with some possible off-season moves, the team may need some roles filled.

Harry Himmelberg is the big name for GWS who could depart the club at season's end, while tall forward Jake Riccardi has also been rumoured to be on the move, despite an improved amount of game time in recent rounds.

With the versatility of Himmelberg possibly departing, someone to fill that role is much needed. Could any of these five options be a possible solution?

Mitch Georgiades

The out-of-favour Port forward has managed only two senior games in 2023 as his club strives for a premiership. Standing at 192cm tall, Georgiades could create a partnership with Giants key forward Jesse Hogan.

With Giant Jake Riccardi's future up in the air, the Port tall would be a viable replacement. In his short career, Georgiades has shown glimpses of genuine talent. His marking ability is a standout whilst his goalkicking may need some work if he is to be a threat up forward.

In 2022, Georgiades played 20 games booting 23 goals. Prior to that, in 2021 he managed 21 games kicking 32. With Port Adelaide's current success, the tall forward might not be as required to Port Adelaide as first thought.

Would the Giants be a suitable home for the 21-year-old?

Jack Silvagni

Whilst now seemingly a mainstay in the Carlton side, Jack Silvagni remains without a contract past 2023. The versatile forward has been used in almost every position possible throughout 2023, most notably as a second ruckman. Carlton's injury woes had forced Voss' hand, playing Silvagni as a key tall for most of the season.

Despite not being a genuine ruckman, Silvagni has proven that he can be a decent second option. The Giants are now armed with a much improved Kieren Briggs and may be looking for a helping hand who can be used up forward if necessary.

Silvagni proved his versatility this season with a standout performance against the Power in Round 18. He booted four goals along with 19 touches and was a key factor in handing Port their first defeat in 13 weeks.

With Tom De Koning rumoured to be staying with the Blues at season's end, Silvagni may end up on the outer. Could leaving Carlton have more benefits than staying?

Pick 1

Number-one prospect Harley Reid has been the talk of the town all season long. With the midfielder being praised as one of the best prospects recruiters have ever seen, his value cannot be understated.

The Giants' draft hand is very strong. They currently have Pick 9 thanks to the Jacob Hopper deal at the conclusion of the 2022 season and their own first-round selection at Pick 12. With a surprise run pushing for finals, the Giants are looking at having a pick between 10-15 depending on where they end up. Additionally, with the rumour that Harry Himmelberg is on the move, they would be heavily compensated.

Last season, GWS traded their early selections in a four-way deal that included North Melbourne in order to land Aaron Cadman at Pick 1. Could they possibly do it again for Harley Reid?

Hugo Ralphsmith

The Tigers half-back comes out of contract at the end of 2023 and could be a useful replacement if a hole in Kingsley's defensive half opens up. A versatile player like Ralphsmith would be a handy addition to the Giants' side after showing signs of talent as a half-back/winger at stages throughout the season.

After only managing 13 games so far in 2023 with a handful as the substitute, Ralphsmith may be looking for more security in his position on a side like the Giants.

The 21-year-old Tiger has also played some minutes up forward once again highlighting his versatility.

Harrison Jones

Tall forward Harrison Jones could be looking for a new home at the end of 2023 as he remains without a contract with the Bombers. The 196cm forward has only managed five senior games, taking the spot of Peter Wright while he was absent with an injury early in 2023.

Unfortunately for Jones, the performances of Wright and untimely forward Kyle Langford has left him out of the side, while injuries have also played their part.

With Jones perhaps looking for a fresh start, could a move be the best option for him?

Published by

Josh De Sa

1 year ago