The 2023 AFL season was quite the rollercoaster. From the roaring successes for several sides to the drastic underachievement of others, it was been one to remember. It had been a long time since there's been a finals race so close towards the end of the season, and it proved to be one of the most entertaining in recent memory.
For clubs who missed the eight, looking towards the trade period and the draft was the next step. Similarly, those in the eight were already be on the lookout for ways to improve their lists and make the jump to premiership glory.
The trade period can be such an advantageous time of year for any club, however, most moves usually don't work out for both sides. It's common for a side to end up with something better than the other in trades - especially regarding picks - but have there been trades where both clubs come off as beneficiaries?
We put together a list of nine trades that worked out for all those involved.
6. 2017 - Tigers and Lions shake hands as key defenders land AFL dream
The Tigers and Lions made crucial trades at the back end of 2017, both ending up with crucial assets to help them in the long run. Brisbane acquired Picks 15 and 52 in return for Picks 20 and 25. With their picks, the Lions drafted small forward Zac Bailey (15) and key defender Jack Payne (52). The pair have been solid in 2023 especially, with Payne finding his way into the side weekly. Payne complements key defender Harris Andrews - the pair becoming one of the most formidable defensive duos in the competition.
Bailey has had a great 2023 season. He's booted 24 goals and averages an impressive 17.3 disposals a game. He has been a quality small throughout his career and has always hit the scoreboard. However, in 2023 he's added some midfield minutes to his game and can aid more with score assists rather than just goals.
With Pick 20, the Tigers drafted forward Callum Coleman-Jones. Coleman-Jones had a decent run with Richmond but only really played if necessary. Injuries to either Jack Riewoldt or Tom Lynch would make space for the 24-year-old to play. Jones was later traded to North Melbourne and in return, the Tigers gained veteran defender Robbie Tarrant, along with a handful of draft picks. In the long run, those picks paid off. The club was able to use what they got from North Melbourne and package them to the GWS Giants for Tim Taranto.
With Pick 25, Richmond drafted key defender Noah Balta, who has been a significant player for them. His ability to defend one-on-one is highly rated, but it's his athleticism for someone his size that makes him stand out. In transition, it's often Balta making the attacking runs and pushing his side forward. Once the draft picks for Richmond have been broken down and looked at, it's clear that both teams were winners here.
