"Having played a bit at East Perth this year through the midfield I think I'll be able to add that versatility to my game, push up through half-forward and in the midfield and try and be creative through there while still hopefully kicking some goals," McKinley told SEN's Daniel Harford on Wednesday.
The 23 year-old met North Melbourne's coaching staff for the first time this week after being traded from the Eagles and says he couldn't be more excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.
"North Melbourne's a really good club and they really impressed me when I met with them. They've got new facilities and the coaching staff sound fantastic.
"I had a brief look (at the list) before I went in and met them and the youth coming through the midfield and all over the ground is really exciting. They've got some great players coming through."
McKinley's acquisition is sure to promote some healthy competition for spots in the forward line.
"I've still only played 46 games and I think that's sort of the apprenticeship period. I feel I can play consistent footy, it's just a matter of how to find that (consistency).
"I think working up through the midfield and getting away from that forward pocket will help me with that consistency. It means I can run up the ground and get into the game a bit more. "
After completing some university studies in law, McKinley will join his new teammates for the first time ahead of the Kangaroos' high-altitude camp in Utah at the end of October.
