2022 has been a rollercoaster for the Adelaide Crows, with Matthew Nicks' side struggling to find consistency through their ups and downs.
The young Crows sit in 14th with a record of 4-8 and have had some great wins at stages this season, including back-to-back victories over the Tigers and Bulldogs in Rounds 5 and 6.
However, Nicks' side faced a five-game losing streak following the win over the Dogs, before securing a 31-point win over the struggling Eagles in Round 12.
To kick off the 2022 edition of this series, we've named five players who the Adelaide Crows could target at the end of this season to help strengthen their squad in 2023.
Much like last year's lists, the players we have identified fill a need and are gettable targets and the rankings are in no particular order.
5. Will Gould (Sydney)
Uncapped but ready to play, Will Gould could be an ideal target for the Crows in defence for 2023.
The defender has been on the cusp in 2022 at the Swans but has failed to crack into the senior side since being drafted with the 26th pick in 2019.
Hailing from Glenelg, the big-bodied youngster would most likely find opportunities in Adelaide and could develop into a handy backman at the Crows.
Out of contract at season's end, Gould could be available for cheap and much like Highmore, would benefit from a change of scenery should the opportunity come knocking.
The 21-year-old is fresh off a 26-disposal, 10-mark game in the VFL, continuing his great form in the reserves and would be frustrated with his lack of opportunity at Sydney.
The Crows would be silly not to at least look at Gould in the off-season to join the club's group of young up and coming players, and at the very least would provide some depth should injuries occur.
