The Brisbane Lions have become top eight regulars this decade and consistently find themselves in premiership contention.
The great teams of the modern era always find ways to get better each season, however, so as the Lions seek to reach a third consecutive Grand Final, they'll also have a keen eye on the impending trade period. With several key positional players off-contract, Brisbane have the opportunity to drastically shake up - and improve - the current core of their playing list.
Here are five trade and free agency targets for Brisbane to consider this year.
5Jack Silvagni
The legendary Carlton name seems destined to leave the team at the conclusion of this season, with Silvagni being strongly linked to rival club Collingwood in recent weeks. However, it would be worthwhile for the Lions to make a play at the out-of-contract defender, as their backline continues to age and key departures also look likely.
Silvagni is in career-best form, averaging 13.8 disposals and 5.8 marks per game this season, and could plug into Brisbane's backline if the likes of Brandon Starcevich and Darcy Gardiner end up moving. At 27 years old, Silvagni would also seamlessly align with the age timeline of Brisbane's current list and be incorporated in their long-term plans.
With Zorko and Ryan Lester in the twilight stages of their careers, an upgrade in defence could keep the Lions in premiership contention for the rest of the decade, especially considering the talent that already exists in the midfield. Hence, Silvagni would be a strong target to prioritise this off-season.
