Melbourne has been the indisputable surprise packet of 2026.
Its win over Hawthorn has lifted the club to fifth on the ladder with a 7-3 record, with their edginess on and off the field yielding exciting results.
Victories over top six sides Hawthorn, Brisbane and Gold Coast have franked their credentials as a team to be taken seriously in 2026.
Leadership change has liberated several players to perform above expectation, which has made the Dees a tough opponent once more and fun team to watch.
1Harry Sharp
Emblematic of the Melbourne's lift under Steven King, the winger has kicked a goal in every game this year.
His dash has helped Melbourne's transition game, assisting in shaping the ball, while his running power has enabled the Demons to run out games well – the Dees have averaged more than five goals in the last quarter of their last five games.
No team has averaged more than Melbourne's 9.7 goal kickers per game, and Sharp has been at the forefront of that with his willingness to push forward aggressively and find a handball receive.
