Kristian Dwyer - TheCoventryEnd.com

adelaide-crows

A side rocked by disaster off the field last season, Adelaide did well to qualify for the finals and make it to Week two.

The loss of coach Phil Walsh to murder mid-way through the season shocked many, although it seemed to galvanise the South Australians in the latter stages of the season.

Despite a huge loss in Patrick Dangerfield, Adelaide have off-set the loss with the recruitment of Seedsman, Menzel, Hampton and the untested Dean Gore from Geelong.

And with two picks inside the first round, they can add to this burgeoning list.

Picks

9, 13, 71, 89

Likely

Aaron Francis (South Australia)

Was originally seen as a top-two contender early on this season, but fell down the pecking order after the Under-18 championships after being forced to mark Josh Schache.

This may be a blessing in disguise for the tall backman, with a chance for the Crows to snap up the talented youngster at number nine.

Should he be able to work on his fitness, he could also do a job for the crows in midfield, and that versatility can only work in his favour.

Other likely picks

Harry McKay, Ryan Burton

Wildcard

Wayne Milera (Central Districts/South Australia)

Originally on the meteoric rise for a possible top-10 spot, Wayne Milera’s draft prospects took a massive turn when he was diagnosed with Wolff-Parkinson-White’s syndrome.

A snappy half-forward, and one with a keen eye for goal, the youngster had his operation on the eve of Central Districts elimination final, but returned to play a starring role in his clubs semi-final.

Could be picked up at pick 13 if the Crows feel he can do a job.

Where does that leave them?

Adelaide were building a youthful, pacy list as it was before Dangerfield established himself as a brownlow-polling midfielder.

Does it leave too big a hole to fill in midfield or will the signing of Menzel offset that?

If the Crows can sign a key forward to help out the ever-present Tex Walker, and can snare a top 10 midfielder, they could just give the eight a shake again this year, if not the top four.

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