In The Mix ( round 3 ) and Market Watch

[Football Factory]

IN THE MIX: ROUND 3  Yeah apparently RICOCHET posted this yesterday .. oops .. here it is again  ;D

ADELAIDE
The Crows will have to sample their much-hyped depth against the Hawks, with midfielder Richard Douglas certain to miss the match with a hamstring injury while Ricky Henderson will test his sore shoulder during the week. Brodie Martin, Brad Symes, Matthew Jaensch, Jarryd Lyons, Lewis Johnston and Sam Shaw were all ultra impressive in the SANFL over the weekend.
-Harry Thring

BRISBANE LIONS
The big man is back. Jonathan Brown will run out against Fremantle at Patersons Stadium on Saturday after missing six weeks with a fractured cheekbone. Brown has suffered three separate facial injuries in the last 12 months but has passed all the medical tests and is raring to go. His return coincides with a Simon Black (fractured hand) injury, which opens the door for in-form midfielders Josh Green and Ryan Harwood. Damaging half-back Josh Drummond has also been earmarked for a return after a couple of weeks in reserves.
-Michael Whiting

CARLTON
Michael Jamison and Nick Duigan were close to selection last week according to Brett Ratten, but the pair was given an extra week to prove they are over their respective back and knee injuries. The Blues escaped their big win over the Brisbane Lions unscathed, but that pair will come right into calculations along with Brock McLean, who has been prolific at VFL level early in the season. Ratten said that Andrew Walker would be in the mix to play against Collingwood, but the forward is more likely to rest his quad injury for another week.
-Jason Phelan

COLLINGWOOD
Nick Maxwell, Sharrod Wellingham and Ben Johnson are available and trained strongly early in the week but it looks like Alan Didak will start his comeback from an adductor injury in the VFL this weekend. Cameron Wood will be strongly considered given Carlton's big man stocks while Nathan Brown successfully returned from two knee injuries in the VFL on Saturday but is likely to need more time at the lower level. Chris Tarrant is out for a month with a calf injury.
-Jennifer Witham

ESSENDON
Essendon's win over Port Adelaide came at a cost last week with David Hille (calf), Nathan Lovett-Murray (hamstring) and David Myers (hamstring) all set to miss at least the next three weeks with injury. Sam Lonergan is also unavailable for this week's meeting with Gold Coast after being suspended for one week. It means the Bombers' depth will be tested, but they should be helped with the return of midfielder Heath Hocking and defender Cale Hooker, who both missed the win over the Power. Tom Bellchambers will come into the ruck to replace Hille, and the fourth inclusion could be one of Kyle Reimers, Ricky Dyson or Luke Davis.
-Callum Twomey

FREMANTLE
Star midfielder David Mundy is under "strong consideration" to return from a serious ankle injury this week, potentially being introduced as a substitute as Michael Barlow progresses to full game time. Fremantle can also consider inside midfielder Nick Lower, who has served a three-match suspension for forceful front-on contact in round 23 last season. Jay van Berlo, Dylan Roberton and Jayden Pitt are pressing their claims from the WAFL, while Alex Silvagni continues to be used as a tall forward in the state competition.
-Nathan Schmook 

GEELONG
The Cats will again be without suspended full-back Matthew Scarlett for their clash with North Melbourne at Etihad Stadium on Sunday evening, but a number of youngsters continue to push their cases in the club's VFL team. Jordan Schroder, Jesse Stringer and George Horlin-Smith were all among the best players in the Cats' win over Williamstown at Torquay on Sunday. Schroder's performance included three goals.
-Adam McNicol

GOLD COAST
Following his two-match suspension to start 2012, Suns vice-captain Nathan Bock will return against Essendon at Metricon Stadium on Saturday night. The All Australian defender played all pre-season in the forward line and his presence has been sorely missed in the opening fortnight. Danny Stanley has also completed a club suspension and is now available, while rugged defender Seb Tape will have a test to assess his availability after having three teeth knocked out in the opening round.
-Michael Whiting

GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY
Last week GWS coach Kevin Sheedy said he wanted to stick with his players from round one and give them another shot against North Melbourne. A 129-point defeat means he will tinker with his line-up, but not drastically. Sheedy believes some of his youngsters need a rest and there's no doubt the likes of Will Hoskin-Elliott, Curtly Hampton and Jacob Townsend have played a lot of tough football over the past eight weeks. Adam Treloar, Matthew Buntine and Taylor Adams could be in line for a debut against West Coast.
-James Dampney

HAWTHORN
Captain Luke Hodge (calf) and Paul Puopolo (back/hamstring tightness) both face tests ahead of the clash with Adelaide on Sunday. Liam Shiels played his second straight game for Box Hill at the weekend after missing most of the NAB Cup with a quad problem. Key defender Jarrad Boumann might be considered for a recall to provide extra cover against Crows talls Kurt Tippett and Taylor Walker.
-Mark Macgugan

MELBOURNE
The Demons hope Brent Moloney (groin) and Stefan Martin (hip) will be available after missing last week through injury. Luke Tapscott looks a strong chance to resume after playing two VFL games as he returns from injury. Tom Couch was elevated to the senior list before round one and played well in the VFL last week again, so will come under consideration, while Sam Blease and Cale Morton are possibilities. Aaron Davey and Josh Tynan travelled with the team to Perth and were put through two rigorous training sessions while on the road. Tynan looks more likely to play VFL while Davey remains a chance to return.
-Peter Ryan

NORTH MELBOURNE
Joint vice-captain Jack Ziebell has completed a three-match suspension and should return against Geelong this Sunday. With key forward Robbie Tarrant (hamstring) still in doubt, Lachlan Hansen, who kicked four goals and took 10 marks for Werribee in the VFL last Saturday, and Aaron Black, two goals and 11 one-percenters for North Ballarat, are likely to come under consideration. Key defender Luke Delaney could also be considered to bolster North's backline as it prepares to take on Cats key forwards Tom Hawkins and James Podsiadly. Small forward Lindsay Thomas (knee) is in doubt after being subbed out against Greater Western Sydney.
-Nick Bowen

PORT ADELAIDE
In a huge boost for the Power, Robbie Gray has recovered from an injured hamstring and will return. Jarrad Redden was no match for Bomber Patrick Ryder last Saturday and, with Brent Renouf starting to find some form in the SANFL, the Power could add another dedicated ruckman to the side. Chad Wingard is expected to recover from a poke in the eye, although Darren Pfeiffer, Simon Phillips, Steven Salopek and Brett Ebert are all pushing for selection.
-Harry Thring

RICHMOND
Addam Maric is favoured to replace Jake King (knee) after being named second best in the Coburg Tigers' victory over Sandringham. Hard-working Jeromey Webberley could also come in for King. Tyrone Vickery's poor form leaves him open to demotion. Tom Derickx would be the like-for-like replacement, but Derickx probably needs to do a bit more with Coburg before making his AFL debut.
-Paul Daffey

SYDNEY SWANS
Lewis Roberts-Thomson is the notable omission for the Swans this week, after the tall utility suffered a fractured cheekbone against Fremantle in his 150th match. That opens the door for one of the club's fringe talls to find a way into the team. Jesse White and Mike Pyke would seem the most likely options. There remains a question mark over Shane Mumford, who pulled out on the morning of the game against Freo with a stiff back, so Mark Seaby should continue to play.
-James Dampney

ST KILDA
Dean Polo has served his week's suspension and is available for the clash against the Western Bulldogs. Brett Peake performed well for VFL team Sandringham and could also be in line for a recall. The Saints had no shortage of goalkickers in last weekend's win over Gold Coast but Beau Wilkes' bag of five for the Zebras has done no harm to his selection chances.
-Luke Holmesby

WEST COAST
Sam Butler, Patrick McGinnity and Gerrick Weedon have been emergencies for the Eagles' first two matches, but opportunities are likely to present for the trio against Greater Western Sydney on Sunday. Changes are expected against the lowly Giants, both to cover for injured veteran Andrew Embley (shoulder) and potentially to manage key players. East Fremantle trio Jacob Brennan, Brad Sheppard and Koby Stevens will come under consideration, as will first-round draft pick Murray Newman, following strong performances in the WAFL.
-Nathan Schmook

WESTERN BULLDOGS
The Bulldogs will be tempted to experiment with three ruckmen against St Kilda on Saturday night with Ayce Cordy continuing to press his claim for a senior berth following some strong VFL form with Williamstown. Midfielder/forwards Justin Sherman and Jason Tutt were also among the Seagulls' best at the weekend and would potentially add a sharper edge to the Dogs' play. Meanwhile, veteran Lindsay Gilbee has suffered what is believed to be a minor knee injury.



MARKET WATCH

Keep

After being criticised for being too often like David, Geelong’s Tom Hawkins (FWD, $303,400) chose the perfect time to emerge as Goliath against the Hawks.

The key forward took 12 marks, kicked three goals, had 22 possessions and notched a career-high 125 Dream Team points.

Hawkins was a behemoth in atrocious conditions at the MCG, treating his opponents with relative disdain.

Which begs the question. Just how dominant might he be in dry conditions and against weaker opposition?

Hawkins might be considered a risky pick with his history of inconsistent performances.

But he looks to have finally turned the corner and in spectacular fashion.

Trade

With price rises occurring for most players (those who have played three games) after next week, Dream Teamers face a dicey decision whether to bite the bullet or stick it out.

Carlton’s Jordan Russell (DEF, $352,400) seems to no longer be in the Blues’ best 22, starting as the substitute in the first two games of the year.

As a result, he has registered scores of 23 (against Richmond) and 27 (against Brisbane).

Michael Jamison and Nick Duigan will make their way in to an outfit that is absolutely flying, and Russell looms as the obvious casualty.

It might be time to cut your losses and West Coast’s Shannon Hurn (DEF, $345,100), who had the equal second top score in round two, looks to be more than a handy replacement.

Invest

If you’re not familiar with Gary Ablett’s (MID, $554,700) best work, then, well, you’ve been living under a rock.

Ablett continues to raise the bar, averaging 140 points over the first two rounds in a side that is getting annihilated.

For good reason he’s one of the most expensive players available, so it’s time to jump on before his price soars.

At the other end of the price scale is Saints recruit Beau Wilkes (DEF, $98,500).

The former West Coast player has kicked eight goals as a forward from two games in the VFL, suggesting he might be ready for a senior berth.

At that price, he could be worth his weight in gold.

New Kid on the block
Not exactly new, but Adelaide’s Tom Lynch (FWD, $243,400) is starting to reap the rewards of being patient in his AFL journey.

And the 1.59 per cent of teams who own the 21-year-old are beginning to quietly rejoice.

Lynch scored 103 points against the Western Bulldogs at the weekend, and is starting to cement his place in the side.

He was drafted at pick 13 by St Kilda in the 2008 NAB AFL Draft, so there’s obviously talent there.

That hurts

Andrew Embley’s (MID, $465,000) dislocated shoulder further adds to West Coast’s injury woes.

Embley is expected to miss 8-12 weeks with the injury, spelling trouble for 1,730 dream teamers.

Those people can find solace, however, that Sydney’s Josh Kennedy (MID, $428,100) is averaging 115 points and is ready to step in and fill the void.

The last word

It’s time ladies and gentlemen. Head to head is here.

A fast start is critical if you’re chasing a finals berth in your league to win ultimate bragging rights.

If you want to be seated in a Toyota FJ Cruiser by year’s end, you better go out all guns blazing.

Ben Guthrie is a reporter for AFL.com.au.   :o   Follow him on Twitter - @AFL_BenGuthrie

[Football Factory]

Might have to trade Mummy .. doesn't say anything about Duffman   mmmm

[Justin Bieber]

You are a bit late on the 'In the mix' thing. Richochot posted it yesterday, but for the market watch, Dr Dreamteam should at least bring up DT related players...

[Football Factory]

You are a bit late on the 'In the mix' thing. Richochot posted it yesterday, but for the market watch, Dr Dreamteam should at least bring up DT related players...

Yeah just read in the Mummy thread .. oops ..  oh well if there is anyone like me that didnt see it yesterday .. here it is again  ;D

[Praetorian]

Why on Earth, out of all the prime candidates, are they discussing Jordan Russell in the 'Trade' section? Does anyone even have him?  :o

[Justin Bieber]

Why on Earth, out of all the prime candidates, are they discussing Jordan Russell in the 'Trade' section? Does anyone even have him?  :o

You are a bit late on the 'In the mix' thing. Richochot posted it yesterday, but for the market watch, Dr Dreamteam should at least bring up DT related players...

Dr DT is more a of spud than Jarrad Redden.

[Football Factory]

Why on Earth, out of all the prime candidates, are they discussing Jordan Russell in the 'Trade' section? Does anyone even have him?  :o

I know WTF ...  did Dr Dreamteam write it ? if so it makes sense

[Justin Bieber]

Why on Earth, out of all the prime candidates, are they discussing Jordan Russell in the 'Trade' section? Does anyone even have him?  :o

I know WTF ...  did Dr Dreamteam write it ? if so it makes sense

lol  ;D ;D ;D

[Colliwobblers]

Why on Earth, out of all the prime candidates, are they discussing Jordan Russell in the 'Trade' section? Does anyone even have him?  :o

You are a bit late on the 'In the mix' thing. Richochot posted it yesterday, but for the market watch, Dr Dreamteam should at least bring up DT related players...

Dr DT is more a of spud than Jarrad Redden.

Jordan Russell is a highly rated player, freako was all over him in the pre season claiming he is a bargain and GET ON.

The fact Dr DT is talking about him now remains irrelevant as you guys say because no one did GET ON , did they ? 0.7% did

The other players are all a bit obvious - Hawkins ablett hurn anyone alive miss thier recent performances? i don't think so.

He did mention tommy t lynch tho and wilkes and kennedy - all a bit under peoples radars. You would think rather than just coming out and stating 4 paragraphs on the totally obvious he would go to a LITTLE effort to uncover smokies batting above thier average and help the masses out with thier bigger issues than advise the 3 people in DT who don't have ablett to TRADE him in.  ::)

[The F.A.R.K.]

russel could be an interesting pick up much later in the year if he gets dropped then brought back and sets dt world on fire like jordan russell of old

[Football Factory]

I thought they would atleast have Magner in the INVEST section   :o   .. if you dont have this guy GET ON !!!!!! But no he talks up Beau Wilkes  :o


"At the other end of the price scale is Saints recruit Beau Wilkes (DEF, $98,500)."

The former West Coast player has kicked eight goals as a forward from two games in the VFL, suggesting he might be ready for a senior berth.

At that price, he could be worth his weight in gold.

[Colliwobblers]

yeah i mean im not knocking the wilkes comment because it actually is handy to know there is an upgrade target on the radar, but for the "massess" out there not on FF finding out everything they can, they need to know what to do THIS WEEK, exactly as you say FF

[Football Factory]

yeah i mean im not knocking the wilkes comment because it actually is handy to know there is an upgrade target on the radar, but for the "massess" out there not on FF finding out everything they can, they need to know what to do THIS WEEK, exactly as you say FF

+ 1

[Justin Bieber]

Beau Wilkes playing well in the Reserves. They beat Gc by 100 points I think no changes will be made!!!!  >:(

He's so silly Dr Spudteam.