Adelaide is in the market for its third flag, but the Crows need to trade in some talent to contend.
The 2025 minor premiers have dipped in 2026, but have shown glimpses of their potential at times as a serious club.
At the end of the day, Matthew Nicks' men will probably only finish outside of the top four due to percentage. Albeit likely in a Wildcard Round spot.
That proves how tight the top end of the ladder is, and how the right trade moves could unlock the very best version of the Crows.
Here is who we think at Zero Hanger Adelaide should target in the upcoming trade period.
Darcy Parish (Essendon)
A forgotten man in Essendon's midfield brigade. Parish's star looked set to soar at the end of his 2021 campaign.
He won his maiden All-Australian blazer, dominated any match that had a medal on offer, came second in the Bombers' best-and-fairest and showed the reason why he was so highly touted as a top-five draft pick.
However, in the five years since, Parish's career has unravelled due to many injuries, a lack of consistency, a lack of form and his defensive efforts being exposed. Along with the general struggles Essendon has faced in recent times.
The 29-year-old is reported to be looking for a fresh start, and Essendon wouldn't hold on to him with a white-knuckle grip.
His ball-winning capability is clear, and if his body can get continuity, he has some good years left ahead of him.
Parish is contracted until the end of 2029, but the Bombers would likely let him go cheap if it can take some of his large salary off their books.
Would add class and ball-winning capability to Adelaide's midfield.
