Following the conclusion of another hectic, fast-finishing home and away season, it's time to prepare for finals football once again.
While eight teams' hopes of holding this year's premiership cup aloft remain alive, ten clubs' seasons are officially over after failing to qualify for September football.
Despite all the attention rightly being on the contenders, each bottom-ten side faces pertinent list management decisions that will shape its future.
Taking into account draft hands and off-contract commodities, we explore those impending decisions facing 2023's bottom ten.
Essendon
Indicative draft hand: 8, 27, 46, 67, 82
The Bombers had an extremely disappointing end to 2023, however, the silver lining is their possession of Pick 8. With plenty of off-season targets, the number one seemingly being defender Ben McKay, the pick could be useful in acquiring their target.
With only one first-round pick, the club will be sure to bolster their draft hand to fill out the positions they so desperately need.
Off-contract players:ย
Kaine Baldwin,ย Nick Bryan,ย Massimo D'Ambrosio,ย Jaiden Hunter,ย Harrison Jones,ย Alastair Lord*, Cian McBride*, Jye Menzie,ย Rhett Montgomerie*, Anthony Munkara,ย Darcy Parish,ย Will Snelling,ย Patrick Voss,ย Brandon Zerk-Thatcher
*Delisted
The big talking point for the Bombers has been midfielder Darcy Parish. Will he or won't he go? There's reportedly been an offer put on the table for the 26-year-old but no decision has been made of yet.
Brandon Zerk-Thatcher could be on his way out in favour of Roo Ben McKay, but losing another key defender may not be something the Dons would be open to. Youngster Jye Menzie impressed in 2023 and would likely be signed on at the Bombers.
Harrison Jones played five games in 2023 before being ruled out for the season after undergoing ankle reconstruction surgery. The 24-year-old is yet to re-sign despite kicking 35 goals in his first 31 games. It's unclear if the young forward is in Brad Scott's plans but he has shown glimpses of genuine talent throughout his short career.
List decisions
The Bombers will be looking to the trade period to bolster their list. Defenders have been something they've struggled with, playing with an undersized backline for most of 2023.
With only one first-round selection, expect it to be packaged in a deal for a defender. Ben McKay is a restricted free agent meaning while Essendon may not have to hand over any trade capital, North Melbourne can match any deal offered. The Bombers would be able to pay a hefty sum but preferably not break the bank. With Darcy Parish possibly on the move, it frees up plenty of space for the Kangaroos defender. The Cats seem to be in the race for Parish's services, especially after the retirement of Isaac Smith and the injuries to their midfield throughout the year.
Along with a key defender, the Bombers are also lacking in the forward line. Peter Wright missed plenty of footy with an injury whilst Jake Stringer has struggled with both form and injuries all year. Another key forward target to take the weight off medium forward Kyle Langford would greatly aid the club. Whether that's using Pick 8 to trade for a player or taking someone via free agency is up for debate.
