Despite falling agonisingly short on the penultimate weekend of this season, the Blues bound into 2024 with a serious injection of hope and promise.
Following an unspectacular middle portion of their 2023 campaign, Michael Voss' squad rallied tremendously to cement itself in the post-season conversation by the close of the home-and-away calendar.
After Carlton's 2022 off-season addition of Blake Acres paid off in spades during the club's spirited finals effort, the Princes Park dwellers will hope this year's gain of Elijah Hollands – who will be sidelined for the opening portion of next year as a result of an illicit substance-related indiscretion – from the Suns will add another dynamic element to an already-formidable engine room combination.
We assessed Carlton's list and produced our projected best 23 for the Blues heading into next year.
2. Midfielders
Carlton possesses excellent stability through its engine room entering the 2024 campaign.
Inspirational skipper Patrick Cripps, serial ball-winner Sam Walsh, the improved Adam Cerra, and unheralded complements George Hewett and Matthew Kennedy remain the headline of Carlton's midfield operation.
Oliver Hollands put forth a stellar showing in his rookie season, showcasing vital signs he'll be a long-term player on a wing under Voss and Co.
Upon the cessation of his suspension, Hollands' brother, Elijah, will attempt to break into Carlton's starting side.
Meanwhile, the Blues farewelled Paddy Dow via trade to St Kilda. While his absence won't be a substantial loss for Voss, Dow displayed dramatic improvement as an engine-roomer towards the end of this year, shaping as an excellent acquisition for the Saints.
After signing extensions during the year, Ruckmen Tom De Koning and Marc Pittonet are locked in for the medium term.
De Koning's long-term Blues future is likely of utmost importance to the bosses at Carlton, as he's contracted for just two more seasons as opposed to Pittonet's 2027 deal expiry.
