Melbourne forward recruit Will McLachlan is excited about the prospect of joining the Demons' exciting brand of football developed by coach Steven King.
The Demons exceeded expectations under the new direction of King, narrowly finishing in the Wildcard Round slots before bowing out to Carlton in the opening week of the season.
However, what took McLachlan by surprise was how free-flowing and lively the game plan was at Melbourne, prompting a move away from Brisbane during the latest trade period.
"I think the brand that Melbourne played this year under Kingy," he said.
"I think they've shown really promising stuff, and the way they played will really complement my football and help get the best out of me.
"He's really looking after the young boys at Melbourne, and it felt like the right time to come here.
"Obviously, I played a bit of footy with Sharpy when he was up at Brisbane too, so it's nice to have a familiar face at the club."
McLachlan joined the Lions midway through the 2024 season, and despite strong VFL form, he was unable to bypass the likes of Kai Lohmann, Zac Bailey and Cam Rayner in a stacked forward line.
He managed to play seven senior games in two and a half years, welcoming the experience of being part of a successful organisation.
"To be able to learn off some of the older boys at the footy club," McLachlan said.
"A lot of success, so I've learnt a lot about what it takes to be a successful footy club and a successful individual."
McLachlan's journey wasn't smooth sailing as a product of the Geelong Falcons.
He was overlooked in his draft year before Brisbane took a punt on him as a depth forward option.
McLachlan says the setbacks throughout his junior days and missed draft put him in good stead.
"I played all through my juniors from a young age. I think what shaped me is I missed out on a few things and had a few setbacks when I was a bit younger," he explained.
"Which really helped me put me in good stead and helped me work hard during my juniors."
The athletic prospect is keen to work inside the Melbourne forward line and thinks the fast ball movement and rapid game style will suit what he can offer to his new club.
"I think playing off instinct," McLachlan said.
"My best is when I'm jumping at the footy, taking marks and using my athleticism and also hitting the scoreboard. I think that's something I pride myself on.
"Hopefully have some scoreboard impact early on and the goals to cement a spot in the senior team in 2027. That's the goal for me."
