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
4. Matt Owies
Owies is the leading name still uncontracted among the league's small forward contingent, with the Blues attacker yet to settle on his future beyond the 2024 season.
Potentially an area of focus for the Bulldogs' list planning, an additional small forward to work alongside Cody Weightman and Rhylee West at the feet of the Dogs' star tall forwards would significantly sharpen the club's front third.
Owies has booted a career-high haul of 28 goals in 2024 and has assisted a further 13 majors as a forward 50 threat under Michael Voss this year.
Given he is without a deal for next year, Owies could be a prime target for the Bulldogs this off-season should he remain unsigned.
