The Norm Smith Medal goes to the player adjudged best afield in the Grand Final, and if Monday night's Brownlow Medal count is anything to go by, Lachie Neale and Nick Daicos are good at drawing votes.
But the Norm Smith isn't voted by the umpires, instead, it's a five-member AFL-appointed panel of ex-players and journalists who will determine the winner. But like the Brownlow, the Norm Smith is typically a midfielder's medal, so consider that.
When you think of the Norm Smith Medal, there are many elite footballers that come to mind. Dustin Martin, Luke Hodge and Nathan Buckley just to name a few. However, every so often the award is given to a player that not many would have expected they'd have the impact they did. Names like Jason Johannisen (2016) and Brian Lake (2013) are some rare examples of this.
This year, we've predicted each club's best chances of having a 'smokey' Norm Smith winner. This isn't to suggest these players aren't 'elite', but more names that not many would expect.
2. Beau McCreeryย
Beau McCreery isn't a name that fans would usually associate with the best on ground.
However, McCreery has been a high-impact player all season and usually flies under the radar due to his appearance on the stat sheet. While the 22-year-old will rarely venture into the teens for disposals, he regularly features among the tackle leaders.
If McCreery can execute the one-percenters and play high-pressure football, he can most certainly make his case. With that being said, he would have to contribute to the scoring sheet as well as minimise the effect of his opposition matchup to be a chance.
