After a charmed run of form under interim coach Josh Fraser, Carlton's future looks markedly brighter in August than it did in early May.
The older souls in the engine room - milestone man Patrick Cripps and George Hewett in particular - have been reinvigorated. The baby Blues, Rising Star frontrunners Jagga Smith and Harry Dean look certain to one day be critical pieces of the club's 17th flag, such is their immediate and devastating impact around and behind the ball, respectively.
Still, there are holes in this list. Carlton's is one with a rather soft underbelly, so who are some acquisitions seasoned operators Chris Davies and Graham Wright could target, in the absence of an announced list boss?
Take a look!
Bailey Humphrey
The Melbourne Demons appear the frontrunners for the x-factor's services, despite a contract tying him to the Glitter Strip until the conclusion of the 2028 season.
However, the Blues, buoyed by strong on-ballers, and stable forwards, could do a lot worse than acquiring an extra spark around and ahead of the Sherrin.
In recent weeks, Humphrey has shaken the poor form that dogged him while his name was in the headlines, booting 10 goals in his last five matches, while averaging 13 disposals a game across that same span.
Outspoken coach Damien Hardwick is adamant that the expansion club will hold the Victorian to his contract, but if Humphrey does in fact force the issue, Carlton should ask the question of the emerging 21-year-old.
