BASKING in premiership glory, North Melbourne seemed to get stronger over the off-season, adding a couple of key players including a two-time All-Australian to the mix. While it means the Kangaroos are not going to feature at the pointy end of the draft, given the depth they possess, the AFLW Draft was not a huge priority for the club in its here-and-now window.

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2024 RECORD: 1st, 10-0-1, 315.4% | Premiers
2024 PICKS: 36, 42, 49

LIST CHANGES:
IN: Eilish Sheerin (Richmond), Ariana Hetherington (Fremantle), Pick 42, Pick 49
OUT: Elizabeth McGrath (West Coast), Lulu Pullar (Sydney), Lucy Burke, Sophie Kavanagh, Zoe Savarirayan (delisted), Pick 18, Pick 54

FIRST PICK:
Pick 36

It is tough to try and assess both what North Melbourne needs, and perhaps who will be there, given the Roos do not select until the end of the second round. Though the Roos will be the last team to make a first selection in the AFLW Draft, they have been shrewd with their picks in recent years so no doubt will be able to find a quality player back there.

The Roos have leant towards players who love a run-and-gun game so perhaps Northern Knights skipper Holly Ridewood could fit the bill. She provides great athletic traits and can play a variety of roles both inside and outside, as well as off flanks. Similarly, Northern Territory defender Tatyana Perry and Giants Academy Amelie Prosser-Shaw are another couple of names who should be around the mark for the selection who boast similar traits.

REMAINING CROP:
Picks 42, 49

Given the close proximity of the Roos’ picks, they will have the mid-draft logjam of players separated by individual club preferences. Right now, North Melbourne only has the two available list spots, but may open a third so we have allowed for that.

Given the age bracket of some of the defenders, the Roos might look to add another player in that role. With that in mind, Lou-Lou Field captained the Western Jets this year and would slot in nicely, as would explosive Oakleigh defender Charlotte Brewer or tough speedster Sabella Banks. North Adelaide defender/midfielder Laela Ebert is a lovely ball user from the back half, while Jemmika Douglas provides a fierce contest.

KEY QUESTIONS:

– Will the Roos go for readymade talent or future upside?
– Given the acquisition of Sheerin, do North Melbourne still target another defender?
– Is another list spot potentially opening up for the Roos over the next 48 hours?