Fantasy Stocktake: Who to Buy and Sell Ahead of Round 19
Fantasy coaches are in for an exciting week as we approach Round 19 of the AFL season. With a mix of standout performances and unexpected setbacks, it's time to assess the players who are heating up and those who might need a trade. Here's a breakdown of the key players to watch and consider for your fantasy teams.
Rising Stars
Will Ashcroft (MID, $1,076,000)
Will Ashcroft is on fire, carving up the opposition with a season-best 142 points. His performance against the Bombers, coupled with a low breakeven of 69, makes him a top pick for coaches seeking a mid-priced player. Ashcroft's versatility and consistency make him a valuable asset, especially with a favorable match-up against the Eagles.
Brad Hill (DEF/MID/FWD, $958,000)
Brad Hill is enjoying the best form of his career, and it's showing in his performance. With an impressive average of 136 points in his last three games, Hill's breakeven of 40 is a steal. His TPP status and ability to score consistently, despite a challenging fixture, make him a must-have for coaches navigating injury concerns.
Rowan Marshall (RUC/FWD, $838,000)
Rowan Marshall dominated in the absence of TDK, posting 134 points. His match-up with the Cats this week is a potential game-changer, and his low breakeven of 38 suggests a significant price increase is on the horizon. While his role might be short-lived, Marshall is a player to watch for his potential impact.
Errol Gulden (MID, $1,003,000)
Errol Gulden is heating up after returning from injury, with a 90% TOG and a score of 100. His elite premium status and unique position make him an attractive option, especially with juicy match-ups for the run-home. Gulden's ability to produce consistent scores is a bonus for coaches.
Marcus Bontempelli (MID, $973,000)
Marcus Bontempelli, despite an average of 103 points in his last five games, looked impressive against the Eagles with 117 points. His upcoming matches against the Suns and Tigers suggest he'll remain a reliable option for coaches, especially with his low breakeven of 95.
Falling Stocks
Zak Butters (MID, $993,000)
Zak Butters, the stand-in Power skipper, suffered an ankle injury, ruling him out for 2-4 weeks. His score of 95 before the injury is a positive, and he's likely to end the year with an average of 105. However, the setback highlights the importance of monitoring player health in fantasy football.
Rory Laird (DEF, $905,000)
Rory Laird, a 32-year-old defender, will need to be traded due to an ankle injury that will keep him out for 2-4 weeks. His good form and soft fixture make the decision challenging, but the injury is a significant concern for coaches.
Christian Petracca (FWD/MID, $754,000)
Christian Petracca, a 30-year-old recruit, is struggling, with six games on the trot without a triple-figure return. His score of 65 is a cause for concern, and his breakeven of 96 is a high threshold. Petracca's performance has been inconsistent, and a trade might be necessary for coaches.
Zach Merrett (MID, $1,027,000)
Zach Merrett's score of 35 is a red flag, raising questions about motivation and performance. With a high breakeven of 162, Merrett's value is at risk, especially with a challenging match-up against the in-form Giants. Coaches might consider trading him to avoid further disappointment.
Jacob Farrow (DEF, $714,000)
Jacob Farrow, a Bomber, has had a great season, averaging 74 points and increasing in value by $400k. However, his score of 52 against the Lions is a concern, and his breakeven of 78 is a potential trigger for a trade. Farrow's value proposition is still strong, but coaches should monitor his performance.
Trade Considerations
- Will Ashcroft and Brad Hill are top picks for coaches seeking mid-priced players with favorable match-ups.
- Rowan Marshall and Errol Gulden offer unique value propositions with their match-ups and potential for price increases.
- Marcus Bontempelli is a reliable option for coaches seeking a consistent performer.
- Zak Butters, Rory Laird, Christian Petracca, and Zach Merrett are players to consider trading due to injuries, inconsistent form, or high breakevens.
- Jacob Farrow is a solid option for an upgrade, but coaches should monitor his performance.
As the season progresses, staying informed about player health and performance is crucial for fantasy coaches. This stocktake provides a snapshot of the current landscape, but the AFL's ever-changing dynamics mean that adaptability and quick decision-making are key to success.
