ST KILDA has used the early pick it snared from Hawthorn to complete its mission to find a couple of gun midfielders in the NAB AFL Draft by selecting Hunter Clark and Nick Coffield at No.7 and 8 respectively.
Both have spent time in defence in the TAC Cup but are expected to be able to move into roles as onballers.
"That's why we picked them. They might have to have entry points elsewhere at different times, but they've both got the ability to win their own ball and do something with it," recruiting manager Tony Elshaug told AFL.com.au.
Clark brings toughness when attacking the football and can kick well with either foot, while Coffield has serious speed and is a leader, having captained the Northern Knights this year.
The Saints also added to their defensive depth by bringing in Oscar Clavarino at No.35 and Ben Paton at No.46.
Clavarino is another key backman to compete with Jake Carlisle, Nathan Brown, Hugh Goddard and Logan Austin for a spot in the senior side.
His closing speed is one of the Dandenong Stingray's best assets while his impressive character means he is touted as a future leader.
At 186cm, Paton offers run from defence and uses the ball well by foot and hand.
St Kilda acquired No.7 from Hawthorn in 2016 as the Hawks were searching for trade chips to convince Gold Coast to release Jaeger O'Meara.
At round 13 this year, Hawthorn was second-last and it seemed the Saints were destined to be even bigger winners from that deal.
Goddard has struggled with injuries the past two years, with turf toe and a torn Achilles tendon, but Elshaug said that was not the reason for adding another tall defender.
"We believe in Hughy and Hughy's got a really bright future at the Saints," Elshaug said.
"It's a bit like at the other end, where you've got Josh Bruce and Tim Membrey, Paddy McCartin, then underneath them you've got Josh Battle and Rowan Marshall. You've got to continue keeping your eye on the future, as well as what you're trying to do now."
The Saints see 186cm Paton as a quick wingman who is a beautiful user of the football.
He played in the backline for Vic Country because the side had a surplus of midfielders and showed his versatility while at the Murray Bushrangers, spending much of his time in the guts.
"He's got a lot of versatility to his game. Jumps, marks, good speed," Elshaug said.
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