Richmond is undoubtedly one of the greatest clubs of the modern era. Winning three flags in four years is an achievement only accomplished by two other sides - Brisbane in 2001, 2002, and 2003 and Hawthorn in 2013, 2014 and 2015. Coached by Damien Hardwick, the dynasty team that won flags in 2017, 2019 and 2020 was one of the best fans have ever seen.
Unfortunately for Richmond, that is not the same team that is playing in 2023. Whilst not having a dramatic drop off in one year, the club has slowly slid back down the ladder as the list gets older. With the retirements of ex-skipper and club legend Trent Cotchin, veteran defender Robbie Tarrant and veteran forward Jack Riewoldt, the club is slowly transitioning away from the side that was once so great.
Additionally, the sudden departure of premiership coach Hardwick midway through the year shook things up. The job for the coaching role at Richmond is still up in the air whilst Hardwick is reportedly making the move to Gold Coast.
It's not the clubs' fault at all by any means. Players age, coaches change, and footy continues to move on. There comes a time for every club where change occurs and it looks as though Richmond is entering that period now. Winning three flags so recently and in such quick succession is something for fans to be forever grateful for. If there's one thing Tigers fans have proved time and time again, it's that they're patient.
As the list begins to show its age and youth is injected into the side, here are five players that we think the Tigers should target in the trade period.
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2. Liam Henry
Dockers midfielder Liam Henry has turned a corner in 2023. The 21-year-old was questioned over form early in the season after missing Rounds 5 - 12. Since his return in Round 13, Henry has played every game since for a total of 14 so far this season. He's been much more impressive in his second stint in the side this year, even adding a couple of high-possession games to his name.
After initially being drafted as a small forward, Henry struggled to maintain his spot in the side during 2021 and 2022. He is clearly a much better midfielder and has proven that this season. For the Dockers, Henry provides plenty of spread and speed through midfield whilst allowing clearance machines Andrew Brayshaw and Caleb Serong to do the heavy lifting.
In transition is where Henry shines as he is often the middle man in moving the ball from the backline to his forward teammates. Playing as a winger, Henry could be a handy inclusion for the Tigers. With current wingers Kamdyn McIntosh and Marlion Pickett, the need for a younger and arguably more capable speedster is there.
Midfielder
Disposals
Tackles
Clearances
Due to Henry's form improvements, it's uncertain if a move is on the cards for him. The boy from Tammin, Western Australia may also want to play out his career at home but a prestigious club like Richmond will always have an appeal.
