Max Michalanney competes with Jesse Motlop during Adelaide's clash against Carlton in round five, 2023. Picture: Getty Images

ADELAIDE defender Max Michalanney has been rewarded for a fine start to his career with the AFL Rising Star nomination for round five.

The Crow, taken with pick No.17 in last year's draft as a father-son selection, has impressed early in 2023 and was again a strong contributor in Thursday night's 56-point thrashing of Carlton.

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Michalanney earned the round five Rising Star nomination to join Harry Sheezel, Will Ashcroft, Reuben Ginbey and Mitchito Owens as the nominees so far this year.

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Big hits and perfect kicks typify Crow's bright start

Sarah Olle chats to round five Rising Star nominee Max Michalanney

He had 10 disposals, four tackles and four intercept possessions in the victory over the Blues.

Michalanney is averaging 11.6 disposals, 3.6 marks and 3.4 tackles in his five AFL games so far.

The Crows are 3-2 ahead of taking on Hawthorn on Sunday.

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AFL Rising Star: Max Michalanney stars in round five

Watch the highlights and find out why Max Michalanney gets the AFL Rising Star in round five