Sydney draftee Max King will miss six months of action after suffering a stress fracture in his back.
The setback is a cruel blow to the Swans Academy graduate, who has impressed onlookers on the track in his first pre-season in red and white.
Scans on a back complaint have since uncovered a "dissapoiting" diagnosis for the teenager, who is set to miss the first half of his debut season.
“Max was experiencing some back pain and unfortunately scans yesterday revealed he has developed a stress injury in his lower back,” Swans football boss Leon Cameron said.
“While it is disappointing for Max as a young player, he is a very hard worker, and we feel he will do everything he can to get back to full fitness as soon as possible.”
King was drafted with Pick 49 last November following a promising draft campaign for the Swans' pathways side and the Allies.
The setback to King comes as the Swans look to carry a near-full-strength squad into their upcoming pre-season matches with the Western Bulldogs and GWS.
Forward Tom Papley is nearing a return from a recent calf issue.
Sydney's 2025 campaign commences on March 5 against Carlton at the SCG to open the new season.
