ESSENDON
The Bombers were generally a two-man fantasy team last season. If captain Jobe Watson or midfield engine Brent Stanton failed to fire, there wasn't much else. Essendon ranked 12th in disposals a game last season, underlining the need for midfield help. Enter: Brendon Goddard. The marquee recruit is a proven fantasy 'stat-magnet' and pleasingly, the Bombers have signalled Goddard will spend a fair chunk of his game time in the midfield. His signing will also take plenty of pressure off the players around him. - Ben Guthrie
THE TOP SCORERS
Jobe Watson
2012 AFL Fantasy average score: 112
2013 AFL Fantasy Dream Team price: $579,400
2013 AFL Fantasy position: Mid
Mr Fantasy says: Deserved Brownlow Medal winner after a super 2012, when he scored more than 100 in all but five games. Expensive, but as consistent as they come.
Brent Stanton
2012 average score: 107
2013 price: $548,900
2013 position: Mid
Mr Fantasy says: Back in the good books with Bomber fans after huge scores last season, when he averaged more than 106. Runs all game and worth a look, despite hefty price tag.
AFL Fantasy hub: gain the winning edge
Dyson Heppell
2012 average score: 85
2013 price: $439,000
2013 position: Mid/Def
Mr Fantasy says: Popular Dream Team selection last season, but he only managed two scores of 100 or more. Finished with a handy average of 85.
Ben Howlett
2012 average score: 85
2013 price: $435,800
2013 position: Mid
Mr Fantasy says: Solid effort last season, averaging almost 85. Gets under the guard of opposition teams and worth consideration.
Courtenay Dempsey
2012 average score: 77
2013 price: $396,700
2013 position: Def
Mr Fantasy says: Athletic half-back who showed some good signs last season, but needs to become a more consistent player.
Jake Melksham
2012 average score: 63
2013 price: $324,600
2013 position: Mid
Mr Fantasy says: Dropped more than $127,000 in price by year’s end. Not a huge possession gatherer, so I would look elsewhere.
Patrick Ryder
2012 average score: 90
2013 price: $465,100
2013 position: Fwd/Ruc
Mr Fantasy says: Certainly did well with an average of more than 90 in 15 games last season, but is injury-prone and still has too many quiet games.
Leroy Jetta
2012 average score: 64
2013 price: $330,200
2013 position: Fwd
Mr Fantasy says: Livewire forward who has improved his Dream Team output through tackling. Averaged in the mid-60s last year; expect a similar output in 2013.
Tom Bellchambers
2012 average score: 80
2013 price: $412,800
2013 position: Ruc
Mr Fantasy says: Certainly lifted his game in 2012, when he averaged 80 in 16 games. Still, there are better ruck options in 2013 and I’d pass.
Stewart Crameri
2012 average score: 66
2013 price: $341,500
2013 position: Fwd
Mr Fantasy says: Started the year very well, but tapered off as it went along when he battled injury. Can score well but the gap between his best and worst is too big.
