WITH the 2021 trade period done and dusted, it is now time for clubs and fans alike to turn their attention to the draft. Between now and draft day (November 24/25), clubs have had the opportunity to exchange picks with the final order formed just over a week out. While the chaos settles, Rookie Me Central takes a look at how each club may approach the upcoming intake with the hand they formed at the close of trade period.

Next under the microscope is West Coast, a club with its highest pick for a decade and the ideal chance to bring in some exciting local talent.

CURRENT PICKS: 10, 29, 35, 67, 82

2022 PICKS: WCE Round 1, WCE Round 2, WCE Round 3, WCE Round 4

ACADEMY/FATHER-SON NOMINEES:

Nil.

LIST NEEDS:

+ Long-term midfield depth
+ Long-term key position depth
+ Outside class

FIRST PICK OPTIONS:
(Pick 10)

While it will eventually slide down to pick 12 after early father-son bids, West Coast’s first selection holds great value in round one. The Eagles need to begin building their midfield for the future and have a couple of local stars right in their hitting zone, as well as classy interstaters who could also enter the mix.

Neil Erasmus is the prospect most linked to West Coast’s pick, with the Subiaco workhorse a tall type with great endurance and a point of difference aerially. He can also roll forward, adding another handy string to his bow. Subiaco teammate Matthew Johnson is also in the frame should he still be on the board after Fremantle get on the clock, and the classy ball winner is as smooth as they come around the contest.

Elsewhere, Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera is arguably the leading interstate option should he get past St Kilda. The flying Glenelg wingman showcased his enormous class in possession at high levels this year, standing above his peers with his ability to get out of tight spots and hit targets by foot.

With some long-term tall talent perhaps also in consideration, East Perth spearhead Jye Amiss may be another to consider. Like Johnson, his selection is pending what the likes of Fremantle do inside the top 10, but Amiss’ goalkicking record in 2021 makes him one of the prime key forwards available, with few up for grabs.

REMAINING CROP:

The Eagles will likely end up with three or four picks out of this year’s draft and with a couple in the thick of the second round, can prize a couple of steals. Depending on what they do with pick 10, the West Australian club could look towards key position options, or continue to bolster its midfield stocks.

East Fremantle ruck-forward Jack Williams may be an appealing option, with his versatility and aerial aptitude proving hard to handle for defenders. Also in the mix will be raw, athletic Central District intercept marker Leek Alleer, whose highlight reel is as exciting as anyone. Geelong Falcons ruck Toby Conway will attract interest in this range as the best pure option in his position.

Local prospects will continue to pop up in the second round conversation for West Coast with the likes of Brady Hough right in that range. The Peel Thunder utility was a big improver in 2021 and could be there for the taking at picks 29 and 35. If first round interest in Jesse Motlop falls flat, he may also prove too hard to pass up, and mature-age WAFL talent will continue to come into consideration.

KEY QUESTIONS:

> Will West Coast go local with its first selection?
> Will West Coast prioritise its midfield depth or look for long-term tall talent?
> Will any key position prospects be available in West Coast’s range?