Fantasy Stocktake: Who to Buy and Sell Ahead of Round 5
The fantasy football landscape is ever-evolving, and with Round 5 on the horizon, it's time to take a critical look at the players who are soaring and those who are sinking. Here's a breakdown of who to buy, who to sell, and why.
Soaring Stocks:
Brodie Grundy (RUC, $999,000): The 'Ruck Pig' dominated against West Coast, showcasing his versatility with 28 disposals, four marks, five tackles, and a goal. His performance puts him back in the premium category at an underpriced $999,000, making him a strategic buy for those seeking a ruck option.
Archie Roberts (DEF, $868,000): After a quiet start, Roberts bounced back with 37 disposals and 12 marks against the Western Bulldogs. His high-possession role and breakeven of 52 make him an attractive option for those seeking a defender.
Kysaiah Pickett (FWD, $949,000): Pickett's forward status is a game-changer, especially with the drop-off in that line. His ability to rack up possessions and attend bulk CBAs makes him a valuable asset, especially with a favorable breakeven of 72 leading into an easy match-up with the Bombers.
James Leake (DEF/FWD, $288,000): Leake, a talented Tasmanian, impressed in his season debut with 63 disposals and six marks. His breakeven of 11 and the Giants' possession-heavy style make him a cash cow worth considering.
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Sinking Stocks:
Tim English (RUC, $1,051M): English's MCL injury is a significant setback, ruling him out for multiple weeks. His poor performance against the Bulldogs (51 disposals) and high breakeven of 149 make him a sell candidate.
Darcy Parish (MID, $720,000): Parish's season-low 56 disposals and a season average of 68 have led to a $39,000 drop. His breakeven of 82 and rapid decline make him a player to offload.
Lachy Blakiston (DEF, $448,000): Blakiston's ruck role hasn't translated to points, with a season-low 33 disposals. His average of 48.5 and breakeven of 37 make him a potential trade target.
Zak Butters (MID, $1,038M): Butters' luxury trade has seen him moved on by coaches after an underwhelming start. His breakeven of 112 and tag target status against St Kilda make him a sell candidate.
Jack Carroll (MID, $479,000): Carroll's breakeven of 30 and serviceable average of 59.3 make him a player to consider trading, especially with the availability of faster cash.
Key Trades:
Most Traded In: Jacob Farrow, Max Gawn, Brodie Grundy, Bailey Smith, Oscar Steene
Most Traded Out: Tim English, Lachie Blakiston, Darcy Parish, Ed Richards, Jack Carroll
Price Moves:
Top Price Rises: Lachie McAndrew, Jai Serong, Jacob Farrow, Lachie Jaques, Jagga Smith
Top Price Falls: Matt Rowell, Reilly O'Brien, Tim English, Ollie Wines, Darcy Cameron
Breakeven Analysis:
Lowest Breakevens: Jacob Farrow, Lachie McAndrew, Jai Serong, Josh Lai, Liam Fawcett
Highest Breakevens: Hugh McCluggage, Tim English, Darcy Cameron, Rowan Marshall, Matt Rowell
In the ever-shifting fantasy football landscape, staying ahead of the curve is crucial. This stocktake provides a strategic guide for navigating the Round 5 trades, ensuring your team remains competitive throughout the season.
