Fantasy Stocktake: Who to Buy and Sell Ahead of Round 4
The AFL Fantasy landscape is ever-evolving, and with Round 4 upon us, it's time to assess our teams and make strategic moves. The early byes are over, and the action is heating up, with some players shining brighter than others.
Bailey Smith: The Reminder of Class
Geelong's Bailey Smith ($1,181,000) is a prime example of a player who has been consistently delivering. With 40 disposals and 10 tackles in Round 3, he posted a round-high 154, averaging 121.3 for the season. His availability for $39k less than his starting price makes him an attractive buy, especially with a breakeven of 90 and a favorable match-up against Hawthorn. The 25-year-old's performance against West Coast could be a ceiling game, further enhancing his value.
Max Gawn: Rucking Dominance
Max Gawn ($1,194,000) continues to showcase his prowess in the ruck, despite the new rules. With 58 hitouts, 23 disposals, and four marks, he scored 141 in Round 3, averaging 125.7 for the season and boasting a breakeven of 94. Gawn's set-and-forget approach is paying off, making him a reliable fantasy asset.
Nick Daicos: Ball Dominance
Nick Daicos ($1,204,000), the popular vice-captain, is a force to be reckoned with. His unmatched hunger for the ball is evident, as he dominated with a season-high 140 disposals in Round 3, lifting his average to 134.3. The 22-year-old's price has increased by $22k, further solidifying his status as a top fantasy pick.
Harry Sheezel and Luke Parker: Versatile Performers
Harry Sheezel ($1,179,000) and Luke Parker ($923,000) are versatile players who found plenty of the footy against the Bombers, each recording 33 disposals. Their strong roles and potential DPP status make them valuable additions to any fantasy team.
Strategic Considerations
With the last of the early byes behind us, it's crucial to plan for the return to a 22-player roster. Avoid overcompensating in one line, as this could leave you with a strong player on the bench while another line lacks scoring punch. Strategically assess your team's composition to make informed decisions.
Most Traded Players
The most traded players this week include Marcus Bontempelli ($1,145,000), Oscar Steene ($250,000), Colby McKercher ($753,000), Jack Watkins ($408,000), and Nick Daicos ($1,204,000). These players are in high demand, indicating their value and potential for fantasy success.
Players to Watch: Stocks Up
- Marcus Bontempelli ($1,145,000): The Bont is a hot property, averaging 111.7 over three games and with a favorable match-up against the Bombers. His history at Marvel Stadium, where he scored 146 against the same team, makes him a strong buy.
- Colby McKercher ($753,000): The Roos speedster, with a breakeven of just 58, is ripe for the picking after an impressive performance against the Bombers.
- Josh Rachele ($751,000): Embracing the midfield role, Rachele scored a career-best 114 from 31 disposals and a goal, leaving him with a BE of 33.
- Kysaiah Pickett ($926,000): The dynamic forward/midfielder has elevated his game, with 33 disposals, seven marks, and a goal against the Blues, leaving him with a BE of 63.
- Oscar Steene ($250,000): Steene's high-flying performance on debut, with 20 hitouts, and a BE of just two, makes him a solid investment.
Players to Watch: Stocks Down
- Tristan Xerri ($1,080,000): After a strong performance, Xerri's output dropped significantly against the Bombers, with just 55 points. A trade is recommended.
- Marcus Windhager ($895,000): The role uncertainty has impacted Windhager's scoring, averaging just 81.3 in the last three games. The bye provides a trade opportunity.
- Darcy Parish ($739,000): Parish's performance has been a step off the pace, averaging just 72 points across three games. His price has fallen, and it's unlikely to improve with the Bombers' struggles.
- Darcy Cameron ($1,002,000): Concerns arise with Cameron's productivity, as the emergence of Steene could impact his duties. His BE of 130 and low TOG suggest a potential trade.
- Mattaes Phillipou ($541,000): Despite a best game of the season, Phillipou's score of 69 is still low. A luxury trade could be beneficial, given his BE of 59.
