North Melbourne are entering year two under Alastair Clarkson and will be seeking a smoother season after their new coach spent a large share of 2023 away from his post.

The Roos have added five first-round draftees to their list along with a number of trade arrivals, seeing plenty of changes to their list as they look to go better than their 17th-placed finish of last year. An exciting batch of young stars and a friendly fixture are sure to lift the levels of optimism at Arden Street in 2024.

2024 expectations

After amassing just three wins last year to avoid the wooden spoon on percentage, the Roos will be eyeing a wins total that potentially doubles their 2023 tally. Clear and improved development in their young core is a necessity, but where results are concerned,
the Kangaroos will be keen to separate themselves from the lower ranks on the ladder and join the crop of clubs above them.

For the full preview download Zero Hanger's FREE 2024 AFL Season Guide.

While Roos fans aren't expecting any finals talk, they'll at least want to see signs of improvement that will have them in good stead for 2025 and beyond.

Star Player: Nick Larkey

You can take your pick between Larkey and star midfielder Luke Davies Uniacke, but the big man gets the nod here given North Melbourne's midfield riches and Larkey's value to this side.

The sharpshooting Roos forward kicked 71 goals last year in a team that struggled to find efficiency in the forward half, with Larkey the most accurate goalkicker in the competition as he knew to take any chance that came his way.

Still in need of more attacking support, Larkey is likely to be the Roos' go-to target again this year.

To read the full North Melbourne preview - including player profiles, the must-watch matches, full club-by-club fixtures, player records, best 23s and HEAPS more - download Zero Hanger's FREE 2024 AFL Season Guide.