North Melbourne will be a fascinating watch come the player movement period, with the club likely to again use the draft, trade, and free agency avenues to improve their list.
The Roos have flagged that it is difficult to attract top-line players to a struggling side, and their on-field woes most likely result in another year at the top end of the draft.
But that shouldn't stop the Kangaroos from being among the leading clubs with cash to spend, while Alastair Clarkson will be keen to add some experience to the competition's youngest squad.
So, who could North Melbourne chase at the end of the season? We take a look at five potential targets for the Shinboners...
OTHER TRADE TARGETS: ADELAIDE, BRISBANE, CARLTON, COLLINGWOOD, ESSENDON, FREMANTLE, GEELONG, GOLD COAST, GWS, HAWTHORN, MELBOURNE
A player who has been flagged as one the Kangaroos could consider should they look to bring in some experience from elsewhere.
Collingwood champion Scott Pendlebury and Swans veteran Luke Parker have also been raised but are quite unlikely to depart their respective sides.
That's not to say Boak may be keen to move to North Melbourne, but a return to Victoria and a potential coaching role on offer after his playing days could entice the 35-year-old.
Boak is still averaging over 17 disposals and five marks per game for the Power despite being perhaps the sixth-string midfield option at Alberton.
The Carlton livewire might just be the best small forward still without a deal for 2025 after Tyson Stengle's recent re-signing at Geelong.
Owies is behind only Charlie Curnow and Harry McKay for goals at the Blues this year, having kicked 23 goals from his 17 matches and 12 assists so far in 2024.
Carlton's successful few seasons of retaining their key players could force somewhat of a squeeze at Princes Park and therefore open the door for rivals to come to the table with out-bidding offers.
With a need for small forward support, Owies perhaps should be in the sights of the Roos given his ability and contract status also.
Not a name Roos fans might be too keen to see on this list, but with Darling's experience and ability to support Nick Larkey forward of centre, it's not the worst move to consider.
The Roos are in desperate need for tall forward depth, with Charlie Comben's position down back now looking unlikely to be removed from Alastair Clarkson's plans going forward.
Brynn Teakle has shown signs in his short time with the club, but some experience overall is needed and there may be none more suitable than Darling.
The Eagles veteran currently finds himself on the outer of selection at the Eagles, who could be open to parting ways with the local forward.
North Melbourne are in a position where they still need to get their hands on as many early picks as they can while still wanting to lure star talent through the door.
The answer to securing both is through free agency, which Ainsworth is currently eligible for under the restricted tag.
Any move for the Suns forward is difficult however, given the Roos could have their free agency compensation - should they lose their own FA in Cam Zurhaar - impacted by a move for Ainsworth through the same lever.
If they can attain Ainsworth and keep Zurhaar, it will go a long way to helping Alastair Clarkson's forward plans.
A second Sun, and one North Melbourne have previously pursued.
Macpherson was linked with a trade to Arden Street three years ago, but a move fell through and the Suns utility remained with Gold Coast given his contract status at the time.
With Macpherson's deal now coming to and end, and opportunities at AFL level harder to come by, the defensive-minded small forward could be better suited with a move to the Roos to refind his form at the top level.
Macpherson has proven to be a formidable pressure forward and wouldn't come at much cost for the Roos, with the Suns keen to acquire later draft selections where possible in 2024.