As the AFL Fantasy season heats up, coaches were thrown into turmoil with the unexpected late withdrawal of star player Bailey Smith ahead of round 17. The announcement, made on Saturday morning, sent shockwaves through the Fantasy community as Smith, a key player for the Geelong Cats, was once again sidelined, marking his third late withdrawal this season.
Smith’s absence left many Fantasy coaches scrambling to adjust their strategies, with some opting to trade out the competition’s most expensive player. This sudden change came just as the Fantasy Classic format returned to its regular setup with 22 scoring players on the field, following the bye rounds.
Strategic Adjustments in the Wake of Smith’s Withdrawal
With Smith, the No.1 captain option, out of the picture, coaches were forced to explore alternative captaincy choices. Among the notable selections was Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera, a choice that proved to be advantageous for those who took the gamble.
The Traders, a group of Fantasy experts, weighed in on the best trades to consider for round 18. They emphasized the importance of monitoring player health and form, suggesting that the current landscape offers a plethora of players worth considering.
Expert Analysis and Recommendations
Calvin, Roy, and Warnie, hosts of the Official AFL Fantasy Podcast, provided insights into the evolving Fantasy landscape. Calvin, who moved up 90 spots with a score of 2315, highlighted the success of the Brodie Grundy trade, while also noting Bailey Dale’s low score due to a role change.
During the podcast, they discussed the implications of recent injuries, such as those affecting Tristan Xerri and Jye Caldwell, and their impact on Fantasy strategies. They also debated the merits of sideways trading and upgrading as viable strategies moving forward.
Podcast Highlights: Key Discussions and Player Picks
The podcast episode covered a wide range of topics, including:
- Calvin’s rise in the rankings and his strategic moves
- The impact of Brodie Grundy’s performance
- Bailey Dale’s role change and its effects
- Injury updates and their Fantasy implications
- Trade strategies for round 18
Listeners were encouraged to consider acquiring players like Lachie Whitfield, despite his high breakeven, and to weigh the potential of Errol Gulden as a must-have player. The discussion also touched on the prospects of Rowan Marshall or Brodie Grundy as replacements if Tristan Xerri remains out.
Community Engagement and Social Media Interaction
The Traders emphasized the importance of community interaction, urging Fantasy enthusiasts to follow AFL Fantasy on social media platforms such as X, Instagram, and Facebook. They also addressed questions from social media, providing tailored advice to individual queries.
“Is Errol Gulden a must-have?”
In response, the experts highlighted Gulden’s consistent performance and potential as a valuable addition to any Fantasy team. They also discussed the merits of targeting Jack Steele as a midfielder, while considering more cost-effective alternatives.
Looking Ahead: Preparing for Round 18 and Beyond
As the Fantasy season progresses, coaches are advised to stay informed about player health and performance trends. The Traders continue to offer expert guidance through their podcast and social media channels, ensuring that coaches are well-prepared for the challenges of the upcoming rounds.
With the Fantasy finals on the horizon, strategic trades and informed captaincy choices will be crucial for those aiming to climb the rankings. As always, staying engaged with the latest news and expert insights will be key to achieving success in the competitive world of AFL Fantasy.
