The departure of Josh Dunkley from the Western Bulldogs has left many wondering how it will impact the team’s upcoming season. However, for AFL Fantasy coaches, this presents a unique opportunity to take a closer look at some of the other talented players on the Bulldogs’ roster. With Dunkley’s departure, there are now plenty of opportunities for other players to step up and make an impact, both on the field and in our AFL Fantasy teams. In this article, we will take a closer look at the Western Bulldogs’ roster and identify some of the key players who could be poised to be relevant for our keeper league teams in 2023.
Take a listen to our latest podcast: Pre-season 2023: Western Bulldogs Preview feat. Will Taylor
The Undervalued
Aaron Naughton was a handy forward last season, averaging an impressive 70 fantasy points per game. However, with the recent addition of Rory Lobb to the team, many are questioning whether Naughton will be able to improve upon his scoring this season. Lobb plays a similar role as Naughton, so there may be some competition for opportunities on the field. Nevertheless, Naughton is a player to consider as he is a reasonably consistent scorer.
Toby McLean has had a difficult time with injuries throughout his career and missed the majority of the regular season last year. Despite this, he made a strong return in the elimination final, scoring an impressive 100 AFL fantasy points while playing on the wing. McLean is listed as a forward in fantasy and has the potential to be a handy pick for coaches. His impressive performance in the elimination final suggests that he could be a valuable asset for fantasy teams if he can remain on the wing and can also stay healthy this season.
The Breakout Contenders
Ed Richards had a standout season last year, playing in 21 games including the final. He averaged 73.2 fantasy points for the season and came home hot towards the end of the season, averaging an impressive 96 fantasy points from Round 18 onwards. His performances last season have many believing that he could break out this season and be a valuable asset for fantasy teams this season. I think he has the ability to average 80+ fantasy points per game this season and could be a player to target in drafts.
Jamarra Ugle-Hagan is a player to keep an eye on this season, fitting the mould of a potential breakout player given his age profile. We all know the former No. 1 draft pick is a freak talent who showed good signs last season, leading many to believe that he could break out and be a valuable scorer for fantasy teams. However, the forward line for his team is crowded with players of similar skillset, which could impact his opportunities to score points. Nevertheless, Ugle-Hagan’s potential and talent make him a player to watch and a potential good pick for fantasy coaches.
The Stash Options
Sam Darcy showed a lot of promise last year, looking comfortable for a young key position player at the senior level. While his fantasy-scoring potential as a key position player may be questioned, Darcy could be a valuable option for fantasy coaches if he ends up as a ruck in the future. Whilst he has looked more like a key position player so far, his height and mobility could see him switch into a ruck role in the future which could be fruitful for fantasy scoring. Darcy is a player to watch for fantasy coaches who are looking for a late pick with potential for growth and development.
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