After covering Zero Hanger's best rookies and bargain buys, we are moving on to our next group of players. This time it's the forwards and defenders' turn, and we put together a list of the best buys taking in to account their price, potential output, and likeliness to play majority of the year (players in other lists will not be included).
BEST FORWARDS
Jack Macrae (fwd|mid) $511,700 WB - Expensive, but produced an impressive 94 points per game last year. Will be hoping for a season without injury, should be a big scorer playing through the midfield and kicking goals.
Toby Greene (fwd) $492,200 GWS - Greene took home GWS' best & fairest in 2016, and was very impressive in the JLT series. Many expecting him to have a massive season, could and should top his average of 90.43 from last year.
Josh Caddy (fwd|mid) $488,600 RICH - A high price, but high output. Caddy averaged 89.81 last year, and a change of scenery and increased role should only improve that score. Also a two position player.
Elliot Yeo (fwd|mid) $409,200 WCE - A handy two position player who should improve with another preseason under his belt. Has the potential to kick 20+ goals, while also running through the midfield.
Christian Petracca (fwd) $395,600 MEL - Under 400k and should build on his 72 average from 2016. Is likely to play in the midfield throughout the year as well, a good mid-level price pickup.
BEST DEFENDERS
Taylor Adams (def|mid) $527,800 COLL - The Magpies' vice-captain is a top tier defender. He will no doubt run through the midfield, hence he's dual position status and at just 23-years-old he should continue to improve. He's expensive, but worth every cent.
Zach Tuohy (def) $443,200 GEEL - A change of clubs has meant a rejuvenation for Tuohy. He impressed in the JLT, and will be an integral part of Geelong's setup. Very effective with his disposal, should get impressive numbers.
Tyson Goldsack (def) $290,500 COL - Missed a lot of 2016 through injury, thus the lowered price. We know what type of numbers he can produce, and at under $300k is a very handy buy.
Callum Mills (def) $420,000 SYD - Another full preseason will only help the youngster, who recently signed on at the Swans until the end of 2023. Relatively expensive but has the potential to push his average upwards of 80 per game.
Shaun Atley (def) $353,400 NM - Attacking half back that can easily rack up disposals. After the changes to the team, there is likely to be plenty of ball to be won and used for North Melbourne. A good pickup at under $400k.