Young Hawthorn forward Sam Butler will miss the remainder of the 2024 season after suffering a broken leg in the VFL on Sunday.
Butler was taken off the field during the game against Sydney at Box Hill City Oval and has since undergone surgery on his hurt leg, which has put a line through the rest of his campaign.
"Whilst Sam's injury yesterday was serious, I'm pleased to report that his surgery today was a success," Hawks football boss Rob McCartney said.
"Unfortunately he has an extended recovery and rehab period ahead of him, but we are extremely confident Sam will make a full recovery.
"Sam is a much loved member of our playing group and his teammates are rallying closely around him. We will all be there to support him through this.”
Butler featured in Hawthorn's Round 5 and 6 matches against Collingwood and Gold Coast earlier this season, making his return to the VFL level last week.
The 23rd overall pick from the 2021 National Draft, Butler has played 19 games at AFL level in just over two full seasons with Hawthorn.
His long-term absence will give Hawthorn the ability to open up a list spot for the Mid-Season Draft, which will take place on May 29.
Currently 17th on the ladder, the Hawks would have the second earliest selection at the mid-year intake if they opted to move Butler to the inactive list. North Melbourne would currently hold Pick 1 given the draft order is the reverse of the ladder.
The Mid-Season Draft order will be finalised after Round 11 of the AFL season.
