Wrapping up our 2024 AFL trade targets series, we look at the Western Bulldogs and how they might be active over the off-season.
Several weeks ago the Dogs were likely looking at key defensive options for the future, with Liam Jones in need of support and a potential heir once he retires.
Former first-round pick Jedd Busslinger has since committed his future to the Kennel, while Rory Lobb and Buku Khamis are playing some of the best football of their careers in defence.
So what other areas of the field might the Dogs consider adding to this year as they look to edge closer to a second premiership under coach Luke Beveridge?
We list five players the Western Bulldogs could target in the 2024 trade and free agency space...
OTHER TRADE TARGETS:ย ADELAIDE,ย BRISBANE,ย CARLTON,ย COLLINGWOOD, ESSENDON,ย FREMANTLE, GEELONG, GOLD COAST, GWS, HAWTHORN, MELBOURNE, NORTH MELBOURNE, PORT ADELAIDE, RICHMOND, ST KILDA, SYDNEY, WEST COAST
1. Isaac Cumming
Given the Bulldogs don't have a first-round draft pick, targeting high-quality talent outside of the free agency pool will be tricky. Hence a move for Cumming might be suitable in more ways than one.
With Taylor Duryea and Jason Johannisen well into the twilight of their careers, Caleb Daniel facing an uncertain future and Ed Richards' increase in midfield minutes, there could be a slot across half-back or up on the wing for someone like Cumming.
The Dogs will also lose the outside run of Bailey Smith and were unfortunately forced to bid farewell to rookie winger Aiden O'Driscoll before he managed a debut.
Cumming, an unrestricted free agent, could slot into a wide role and complement the likes of Bailey Dale and Bailey Williams as a flank option who wouldn't cost the Bulldogs any draft capital.
