A SECOND Giant has become a Hawk in as many years.
Key forward Jon Patton's long-touted move from Greater Western Sydney to Hawthorn is complete, 12 months after ex-Giant and fellow No.1 draft pick Tom Scully did the same.
The deal sees Hawthorn receive Patton and the Giants receive a future fourth-round selection, which is tied to Melbourne.
AFL.com.au revealed the Hawks' interest in the 26-year-old in April, while he officially requested a trade a fortnight ago.
Similar to Scully's serious ankle injury, Patton sat out the entire season recovering from an anterior cruciate ligament tear to his left knee.
He previously underwent two reconstructions on his right knee but has been in full training for months and should be ready from the first day of pre-season.
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Patton was one of GWS's highest-paid footballers, so the Giants have cleared significant salary cap space ahead of their bid to re-sign free agents Lachie Whitfield, Jeremy Cameron and Zac Williams.
Cameron, Harry Himmelberg and Jeremy Finlayson functioned well as a tall forward trio for Leon Cameron's side this year, so the move made sense.
Hawthorn is keen for Patton to partner emerging forward Mitch Lewis – who, like Patton, is almost 200cm – and All Australian Jack Gunston in a remodelled attack next season.
Club great Jarryd Roughead retired this year and the Hawks missed out last year on high-profile free agent Tom Lynch, who subsequently won a premiership with Richmond.
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Patton booted 83 goals across the 2016 and 2017 seasons but last played in round 15 last year.
He is noted for his contested marking and is one of the AFL's best set shots at goal.
More to come
