The Western Bulldogs will attempt to "accumulate" enough draft assets to make a bid in 12 months for Port Adelaide superstar Zak Butters, but only if it doesn't compromise the club's overall strategy.
The Bulldogs have been heavily linked to Butters ahead of his contract season, which will undoubtedly be a major talking point of 2026.
A host of Victorian clubs are already preparing a play for the two-time All-Australian, who has strong ties to the state.
But the Whitten Oval club is deemed the frontrunner for his services, given the geography and location of the side.
Butters grew up in Bacchus Marsh and was drafted from the Western Jets in the Coates Talent League.
The Bulldogs' deal with Ballarat sees them play multiple matches throughout the season, which is 45 minutes from Darley.
"Prudent list management, you set yourselves up for the future years as much as possible," The Bulldogs player acquisition and strategy manager, Michael Regan, said on Gettable Draft Countdown.
"There's so much water to go under so many bridges between now and the next trade period. But for us, it's not necessarily about any one player. It's about enhancing our list, enhancing our flexibility.
"So, we will look to, if we can, accumulate something in this period, but only if it doesn't compromise what we're trying to do to help our footy club in 2026."
The Power have kept Butters to his contract, which will expire at the end of next year when he becomes a free agent.
Former Power assistant coach Chad Cornes predicted that the Bulldogs will be his new home.
"I love [Butters], he's such a great guy... but if I had to make a prediction, I think he goes this time next year," Cornes said on SEN at the end of October.
"I would be saying [keep an eye on] that he loves the Bulldogs, just a real hardcore Bulldogs supporter before he got drafted."
The Bulldogs hold Picks 14, 33 and 53, which will get blown out following the bids for the father-son and academy prospects.
Zero Hanger's final 2025 Mock Draft sees the club selecting Eastern Ranges forward Lachy Dovaston, who is widely seen as the best front-half small in the crop.
