BRISBANE has traded out of the first round of this year's NAB AFL Draft, sending its two first-round picks to Melbourne.
The Lions sent picks No.18, No.19 and a future second-round pick to the Demons in exchange for picks No.25, No.68, No.69 and a future first-round selection.
TRADE TRACKER All the deals as they drop
The deal reduces the Lions' hand this year approaching a Draft in which they are not expected to play a major role in.
Brisbane has basically opted out of this year's draft - trading picks 18 and 19 for Melbourne's future first-round pick. Lions will get pick 25, 68, 69 but also gave up future second round pick.
— Callum Twomey (@CalTwomey) November 12, 2020
Brisb didn't want all the picks & Dees always find a way to work up the draft order
The strategic move gives them a stronger presence next year while stocking up on points to select Next Generation Academy players in 2020.
Blake Coleman – the brother of first-year Lion Keidean – is a member of Brisbane's Academy and is among the best small forward's available in this year's draft.
They will now be in a position to match bids for him with later selections while holding a strong hand next year.
INDICATIVE DRAFT ORDER Your club's picks as they stand
The Lions also traded defender Alex Witherden to West Coast on Thursday in exchange for pick No.58 and a future third-round selection, sending pick No.86 to the Eagles.
They received key forward Joe Daniher as a free agent and former top-10 pick Nakia Cockatoo from Geelong for a future third-round pick in a productive Trade Period.