Player Thoughts

[valkorum]

I am undecided between a few players.  Can I get everyones opinion on the following players

Heath Shaw
Luke Hodge
Andrew Mackie
Lindsay Gilbee

Heath Shaw:  Gets plenty of run off the half back and kicks quite regularly (although would score well if we got points for bounces).  Is not likely to get a tag next year with Swan, Ball, Pendlebury, Didak, Davis most likely in front of him to receive the tag.  It is his 6th year this coming season as well.

Luke Hodge:  Proven performer but hasnt played a full season for the last 2.  Late last season was spending a bit more time in the middle.  Bound to help his average if this continues this season.

Andrew Mackie:  Solid DT'er but his average dropped last year compared to the year before.  Wonder how he will go now that Harley is gone, is he going to get more of a defensive role this season?

Lindsay Gilbee:  Proven performer and plays lots of games each year.  Does occaisionally go up forward so some extra scoring points available there.

Edit: Completing this post, was at work and had to leave desk quickly.

[Team_Lactose]

I guess in a way this is the million dollar question (or atleast the 400k question).  For mine I would go hodge for a little money, gilbee and Shaw to be steady and mackie......................... not to sure.

[mcyi5asw]

Mackie undoubtedely went backwards this year from a SC / DT scoring perspective, no doubt this is largely to do with the increased defensive accountability placed upon him with the injuries / unavailability / ageing of Harley and Milburn.  I don't see this changing in 2010 with the departure of Harley.

Being a Dogs man I love having Gilbee on my team sheet.  However, he has gone from being a consistent week in week out performer to a real risk week on week.  This may be a result of injury / personal circumstances in 2009 but he is also such a key weapon for the dogs with his delivery I think the days of him roaming half back with a licence are over.  Opposition teams ensure he is accountable.

With Heath Shaw I think it is irrelevant which Collingwood players get tagged in the middle. He will be tagged with a defensive forward when required which sits outside that equation.  Will deliver you a few 130+ weeks across the season but be prepared for the 50-60' as well.

Undoubtedely the best option is Luke Hodge.  Reads the play so well, can (mostly) deal with a tag, and gives you a more even scoring platform with his physicality and tackling.  Fitness is the only reason not to pick at this price, but if he plays a full preseason jump on board.