Despite Collingwood’s premiership win last year, they’re not exactly an AFL Fantasy coach’s dream team. But don’t worry, we’ve dug deep and found some Collingwood players who could shake things up in your fantasy squad. From talents like Lachie Schultz, who’s stirring up excitement but might face tough competition in the Magpies’ forward line, to Patrick Lipinski, who’s eyeing a bigger role this year. Plus, we’ve got some breakout contenders and stash options like who you’ll want to remember. Check out who we’ve picked below.
The Undervalued
Lachie Schultz
Lachie Schulz, a name that has been stirring discussions among Collingwood fans, is probably seen as overvalued right now given the hype among Collingwood fans surrounding his trade. However, from an AFL Fantasy perspective, he was somewhat underrated last year. Schulz managed to average 78 points as a forward at Fremantle, a performance that earmarks him as a promising forward prospect for the upcoming season. But his move to Collingwood dampens things a bit. Unlike at Fremantle, where he enjoyed brief stints in the midfield, Schulz is unlikely to find similar opportunities at Collingwood. The team also boasted a strong contingent of small and general forwards before his arrival, many of whom are capable of delivering a similar output to Schulz’s. This crowded forward line could limit his role and impact. Therefore, while the best-case scenario might see him replicating last year’s average, the realistic expectation is that Schulz may experience a decline in his performance this season, particularly in AFL Fantasy terms.
Patrick Lipinski
Patrick Lipinski’s season in 2023 was unfortunately marked by that preseason injury, preventing him from reaching his best in 2023 Despite these challenges, he played a commendable role in the grand final for Collingwood, entering as the sub and proving to be a serviceable contributor once he took to the field early in the game. Lipinski averaged 69 points over the last season, primarily playing in the forward line. It’s important to highlight that during the latter part of the season, when Collingwood faced midfield injuries, Lipinski saw increased time in the middle. This shift resulted in higher centre bounce attendances and some decent scoring in those matches. With Taylor Adams moving to the Sydney Swans, an opportunity arises for Lipinski to potentially fill in Adams’s midfielder-forward role. While a significant increase in fantasy scoring might not be on the cards, Lipinski’s role as a forward makes him an intriguing prospect. Should he manage to boost his average to around 75, a level well within his capabilities, he could serve as a viable option in keeper league teams.
The Breakout Contenders
Finlay Macrae
Finlay Macrae had an outstanding year in the VFL, showcasing remarkable talent and consistency, which hasn’t gone unnoticed. Collingwood’s coach, Craig McRae, has frequently mentioned him in offseason press conferences, hinting at Macrae’s potential inclusion in plans for the team. Again, the recent move of Taylor Adams to the Sydney Swans has stirred speculations about possible changes in the team’s lineup. While Adams’s departure doesn’t directly secure a spot for Finlay Macrae, there’s a scenario where Tom Mitchell could take over Adams’s role, potentially opening up opportunities for Macrae. Also with Pendlebury getting on in age, Macrae seems like a good replacement in future years or if a disaster were to strike with injury in 2024. However, it’s important to note that Collingwood’s current style of play leans more defensive than in the past, so even if Macrae secures a role, his impact as a fantasy scorer might be limited in this Collingwood side. But there is potential for him to become a regular starter in Collingwood’s midfield soon.
The Stash Options
Ed Allen
Edward Allen was a standout performer in his draft year, averaging 101 points in the WAFL Colts in 2022. With a frame suited for a key position, Allan’s versatility shone as Collingwood deployed him as an outside midfielder in the VFL during 2023. His skill set and physical attributes suggest a bright future and could take over a role on Collingwood’s wing soon. While he also has potential as an inside midfielder, it may take time to develop into this role and there may not be an opportunity for him there straight away. That said, Allem is an exciting prospect for the future so stash him away now.
Jakob Ryan
Jakob Ryan has a history as a standout AFL Fantasy scorer in the SANFL under-18s averaging 106 points in 2022. His impressive form in the VFL led to his senior debut in the final game of 2023, although an early concussion cut his game short and he did not return for the finals. Looking towards 2024, Ryan’s opportunity in Collingwood’s backline is promising, considering there are some aging players in the Collingwood’s. Ryan could be the perfect replacement for Steele Sidebottom on the wing and this could pave the way for him to secure a more regular role in the future. Ryan’s playing style is well-suited for fantasy, suggesting he could be a valuable asset in fantasy teams making him a player to watch for a potential breakout in upcoming seasons.
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