STRENGTHS:

+ Competitiveness
+ Intercept marking
+ Kick penetration
+ Outside run
+ Work rate

IMPROVEMENTS:

- Kick consistency
- Opposite foot

Nyko is somewhat out of the box for what would normally be expected of wingmen or running half-backs, but in many ways also fits the bill perfectly. He offers the very much in vogue speed-endurance mix required to muster repeat rebounding spurts, but is also gutsy enough to win his own ball and rise for intercept marks at 180cm.

It's hardly a surprise, then, that Nyko was also trialled at the centre bounces this year. He hunts the ball, tackles hard, and refuses to be caught himself - often bustling out of an opponent's grasp or using his acceleration to break away. Eastern liked quick forward 50 entries this season, and Nyko's kick penetration lent to that.

Nyko was also tasked with the kick-ins at times and combined with his run-and-carry, he helped launch attacks in 50-100m bursts. Along with his involvement up the field, that kind of play saw him average over two score involvements per game across both the Coates Talent League and National Championships.

While some of his work by foot can be weaponous - like when he launches goals from outside 50 - much of Nyko's room for improvement revolves around his ball use. He gets good length on his kicks, but sometimes rushes and sprays it unpredictably. He can work on being more measured and utilising his non-preferred right side.

As an athlete, Nyko tested well across the board in pre-season and if not for a shoulder injury, would likely have repeated the feat at the National Draft Combine. He missed out on finals and the chance to further prove his worth, but has a good range of footballing and athletic traits which suit the modern game.