ST KILDA has locked away prized early draft pick Max King.

The fourth selection from last year's NAB AFL Draft has inked a two-year deal with the club, which will ensure he remains with the Saints until at least the end of the 2022 season.

"I'm really excited to re-sign with the Saints," King told the club's website.

"I've been embraced by the whole club since being drafted. I can't wait to get to full fitness to repay the faith shown in me.

"I hope this is just the start of a long career here."

FUTURE PICKS Who you should barrack against in 2019

King, a highly rated 204cm forward, remains in the club's rehab group as he continues his recovery from an ACL injury sustained last April.

He is not expected to return to the field – and subsequently make his AFL debut with the Saints – until midway through the upcoming campaign.

"As desperate as Max is to get out on to the field, we will continue to be patient with his rehabilitation, as we see him being a key pillar in the long-term future of our club," St Kilda list manager James Gallagher said.