Freshly traded across the country to the West Coast Eagles, former Blue Matthew Owies has admitted poor contract timing was the key contributor to being squeezed out of Carlton.
Owies was part of a three-team trade on Tuesday that saw him and Tiger Liam Baker join the Eagles. It ends Owies five-year stint at the Blues, who was picked up as a Category B Rookie in 2020.
The 27-year-old was a significant contributor in the front half over the past two seasons, kicking 60 goals alongside Coleman medallists Charlie Curnow and Harry McKay.
However, the fact that Jesse Motlop (2025), Corey Durdin (2026), Orazio Fantasia (2025) and Cooper Lord (2025) all held deals, the writing appeared to be on the wall for Owies.
โ(The uncertainty) was bubbling away throughout the year,โ Owies said onย 3AW.
โWe had a chat midyear about where we were sittingโฆlist spots were really tight, and I was aware they needed flexibility probably midway through the year.
โIt became clear I was out of contract at the wrong time."
The 72-gamer said he is grateful for the opportunity afforded to him by Carlton.
"I'm sad to leave and really enjoyed my time at Carlton and loved playing in front of the supporter base," the 27-year-old said.
Owies wasn't the only Blue asked to explore his options this off-season though.
Contracted players Matthew Kennedy and Lewis Young were asked to consider exploring new opportunities, with the Western Bulldogs presenting as a potential late suitor for Kennedy on deadline day, whilst Young is poised to see out his contract at Carlton in 2025.
However, Owies is "pumped" to join the Eagles and is relishing the chance to bring success back to West Coast.
"Everything happens for a reason. West Coast have believed in me and given me an opportunity and I can't wait to have that responsibility of helping that great club climb back up the ladder," Owies said.
"I get a great feel already from meeting Matt Clarke, Gavin Bell, Andrew McQualter and the boys reaching out, I think it's going to be a great environment.
"I'm pumped for the responsibility and the opportunity."
Owies joined the Eagles alongside Richmond star Liam Baker in a three-club trade, with the Perth team currently holding Picks 12, 26 and 73.
