The Traders take a look at every club's list from a Fantasy point of view and give you the inside word on where the bargains are to be found.
The biggest lock for the Suns is... Gary Ablett [MID, $621,200]. How can Gaz be overlooked? Last year was the sixth season running that he has averaged over 111 Fantasy points with an impressive 115. During the year he pumped out nine scores over 130 including a huge 163 against the Pies where he collected 49 touches and kicked two goals.
There have been rumours circulating about Ablett playing forward for longer stints which has caused some concern from Fantasy coaches, but realistically he is so good that when he is in the forward line, he's more than likely to impact the scoreboard with a few goals which brings in handy a handy 12 Fantasy points each time.
His NAB Challenge form has been solid enough with 92 points from 31 touches in his first game vs the Bombers while being tagged by Heath Hocking.
A bargain on the radar is ... Jack Martin [MID, $268,300]. The highly touted rookie that some have said is better than at the same age. Out of the 2014 rookie class, Martin looks like one of the safest picks to be selected for their club each week.
His NAB Challenge form has been solid, without being amazing with 62 points from 73 per cent game time in his debut against Essendon and 52 points from 72 per cent game time against the Lions. Still, O'Meara topped 100 points in each of his first two NAB Cup games in 2013...
Also keep an eye out this weekend for Kade Kolodjashnij [DEF, $252,000] who is in the mix for a game against the Pies after recovering from hamstring tightness.
The unfortunate timing of his minor injury leaves him with just one game to earn a spot for round one, but this gun kid certainly has the potential to do it.
Kade is an elite ball winner and won the Harrison Medal after averaging 27 disposals at the 2013 NAB Under-18 Championships.
A player of difference is... Dion Prestia [MID, $523,600], who is fresh off a break-out season where he increased his Fantasy average by over 20 points to an impressive 97. Prestia’s biggest asset is he knows how to go big. Out of his six 100 point games in 2013, only one of those was less than 110 with huge scores of 133, 136 and 157 the highlights.
If Prestia can continue to develop his consistency, he could be a very handy unique player on your squad.
Unfortunately we have not seen Prestia in either of the Suns' NAB Challenge games as he recovers from a calf injury but he will take the field this weekend in a practice game against the Pies.
The pre-season has taught us that... David Swallow [DEF/MID, $377,000] will have a different role in 2014. Last year, Swallow spent the majority of his time manning up across half-back, but this pre-season he has been unleashed through the midfield and the former number one pick seems to be relishing the opportunity.
In his first NAB Challenge game, Swallow collected 23 possessions for a score of 88 points from 71 per cent time on ground and his role alone was enough to convince me he is a worthy selection.
Twitter talk
Twitter question from @DJLauritsen: “@RoyDT: Is this going to be a break-out year for Jesse Lonergan?”
Keep an eye on Jesse Lonergan [MID $224,400] who is coming off a torrid run of injuries in his first season, leaving him priced cheaper than a number of 2014 rookies.
In the Suns NAB Challenge game against the Lions, Lonergan played a tagging role and did a brilliant job, which can only help the security of his position in the side.
Jesse scored a handy 69 points from 70 per cent game, collecting 11 touches and an eye catching 10 tackles!
He will take pride in whatever role he is given in the Suns' side, and if his job is to tackle, get ready for an influx of points.
Coach Roy currently has his eye on.... Gary Ablett is obviously high on the priority list. He is a must have, and preferably sooner rather than later.
David Swallow is currently sitting in my backline and I think he is set for a break-out season.
At this stage I will be leaving out Jack Martin due to his inflated price and the availability of more experienced players for a cheaper price.
To discuss #AFLFantasy on Twitter, follow @RoyDT and the official account @AFLFantasy
