2011 Countdown: Isaac Smith

[ossie85]

Isaac Smith

Summary:

Many stories on this guy, including....

History in the making?
Hawks grab Smith
From rags to riches!

Isaac Smith, a 21 year old, has the feel-good story of being a late bloomer, and in a mere "80 days" turned from a nobody to a somebody. Played just 3 games for his University side Redan, before being snapped up by VFL side North Ballarat and dominating the VFL finals. At approximately 190cm, has the ability to be a powerful line-breaking midfielder or leading forward, and at 21 could have the physical maturity to make a quick impact. However, despite his impressive VFL performances, Smith does not have that much senior experiences that other mature-aged players have. The Hawks have had limited success with mature-aged players, with the exception of Stuart Dew, in the past.

The Crystal Ball:

Based on m0nty's fanplanner

Price: $122,500

Position: FWD (of MID or FWD/MID)

Fanplanner currently lists him as a forward, but other articles suggest he played through the midfield. The Hawks are in the process of adjusting their line-up after disappointing 2009 and 2010s, so it isn't a sure thing where Smith will fit into that picture. For me, I think they'll give him opportunities early.

Forward or Midfielder?

Decision:

As a FWD or FWD/MID he warrants some serious consideration, and even as just a MID is tempting. The Hawks do not have a bye until late in the season, by which time he should be well and truly upgraded. Another short listed young gem for me.

[hawk_88]

Not an automatic selection for me. Potentially could walk into the side given his pace and the Hawk's lack of it. Will depend on form.

However, I see him as a good fit for the sub as he has versatility with pace and height. Good for the Hawks, not so good for fantasy. If not the sub, will most likely be played off half forward and roam at times like a midfielder.

The sub is going to kill the value of some rookies who will only play 40% of the game.

[Fletch74]

I'd have to agree with hawk on this one. I don't know if he will get enough games, let alone game time. Will have to wait and see.

A player to watch though with his background.

Great write up ;)

[Boomz]

If he's mpp i'll be very keen but it depends if he's getting much game time.

[Fenno]

I can't see the Hawks or any team for that matter using a 1st round pick on a mature age player and then not play them. So he will play and play often

[hawk_88]

I can't see the Hawks or any team for that matter using a 1st round pick on a mature age player and then not play them. So he will play and play often

Historically the Hawks don't put a lot of games into early draft picks. He is only 21 so they could still give him a year. They have waited until players are older than that to fully back them for senior selection.

[Boomz]

He's what the Hawks need and is ready made so they will give him a chance at least.

[Maca24]

think he will get games, but am unsure if he will play early.
still looks like a good pickup though.

[Hawka]

i reckon he will play alot if not a lock on the shortlist

[Justin Bieber]

He's shortlisted for me. Have heard of him and his sudden rise.

[MajorLazer]

If he's named for Week 1 I will look closer into him. Right now I am a little unsure.

[bradway]

If he does the hard yards over the summer you can lock him in for a round one debut.
He will break open a game with his blistering pace, I cant wait to see him tear down the members wing at the MCG and hit Buddy on the tit, and will kick a telling goal in a pressure situation but he is not an accumulator of the ball.
In 6 games at VFL level he was not once named in the best players.
As much as I love the selection as a Hawks fan as he gives us the pace we were desperately seeking, I dont think he will be a fantasy option early.
I would be thinking Clinton Young type average for this guy next year so solid but not without being outstanding, but he will play.

[Maca24]

yea nice to have a good  rookie forward option to  :)
one of isaac smith or dion prestia should make my team.

[BoredSaint]

definately short listed

[Junktimer]

Isaac Smith

Summary:

Many stories on this guy, including....

History in the making?
Hawks grab Smith
From rags to riches!

Isaac Smith, a 21 year old, has the feel-good story of being a late bloomer, and in a mere "80 days" turned from a nobody to a somebody. Played just 3 games for his University side Redan, before being snapped up by VFL side North Ballarat and dominating the VFL finals. At approximately 190cm, has the ability to be a powerful line-breaking midfielder or leading forward, and at 21 could have the physical maturity to make a quick impact. However, despite his impressive VFL performances, Smith does not have that much senior experiences that other mature-aged players have. The Hawks have had limited success with mature-aged players, with the exception of Stuart Dew, in the past.

very harsh, stuey dew did his bit, 08 grand final 3rd quarter  :o

should be FWD/MID, am very interested in him.  definite short list.

game breaker.