Gold Coast forward Jamarra Ugle-Hagan's latest performance not only sent a warning to the rest of the competition, but also one of his teammates.
Ugle-Hagan was selected over out-of-contract teammate Jed Walter for Sunday's clash against GWS, which he repaid in spades after slotting three goals in the 20-point win.
The former Bulldog was quiet in the first half, but worked his way back into the game, reflected by his chasedown tackle and subsequent sealer in the fourth term.
"I was really pleased for him," Hardwick said.
"He probably had a little bit of an indifferent first half but … you've just got to keep showing up and eventually your moments come and he delivered.
"What we've got to realise is it's his second game. He's only going to get better and better. He'll get fitter, he'll get stronger – he'll get a greater understanding of how we want to play.
"I'm just pleased for him. Hopefully he sees the player that we see he can become."
Hardwick's messaging around Ugle-Hagan since he walked through the doors has been around his long-term prospects as a Suns player.
Gold Coast gave up Pick 74 for the former Pick 1, putting him on a one-year deal that is highly incentivised, including a trigger for a second season.
Ethan Read is a lock given his versatility, while Ben King is a first-choice forward under Hardwick, leaving one spot up for grabs.
But Ugle-Hagan's revival has forced a squeeze inside 50, with Walter becoming a victim of the selection pressure.
Walter went goalless last week against Hawthorn. His response in the VFL won't excite Hardwick for the most part, recording one major from 12 touches, whilst pinch-hitting in the ruck.
Essendon and West Coast have been linked to Walter, while clubs who need key forwards such as Collingwood and Melbourne would have to consider him as a prospect.
It will be an interesting watch given King is yet to decide his future beyond 2026, but despite strong interest from Hawthorn and the Pies, he is tipped to re-sign for another two years.
Ugle-Hagan's resurgence may be one of the better feel-good stories in the AFL in recent times, but his resurrection could push Walter out the door.
