The Norm Smith Medal goes to the player adjudged best afield in the Grand Final, and if Monday night's Brownlow Medal count is anything to go by, Lachie Neale and Nick Daicos are good at drawing votes.
But the Norm Smith isn't voted by the umpires, instead, it's a five-member AFL-appointed panel of ex-players and journalists who will determine the winner. But like the Brownlow, the Norm Smith is typically a midfielder's medal, so consider that.
When you think of the Norm Smith Medal, there are many elite footballers that come to mind. Dustin Martin, Luke Hodge and Nathan Buckley just to name a few. However, every so often the award is given to a player that not many would have expected they'd have the impact they did. Names like Jason Johannisen (2016) and Brian Lake (2013) are some rare examples of this.
This year, we've predicted each club's best chances of having a 'smokey' Norm Smith winner. This isn't to suggest these players aren't 'elite', but more names that not many would expect.
1. Isaac Quaynor
Nick Daicos has been at the forefront of the Pies half-back line with Collingwood pricing to be a threat to generate scoring opportunities in transition. Quaynor has recorded 6+ rebounds on more than 10 occasions this season and will look to build on this in the Grand Final.
The 23-year-old averages the fourth most rebounds against Brisbane compared to any other club. If Isaac Quaynor can lockdown his direct matchup, which is expected to be star Lion Charlie Cameron, as well as be the main tunnel of forward delivery, he can be a real chance to take the Norm Smith home.
