It was an up-and-down season for Adelaide, who at times looked like one of the best sides in the competition.
Their fearsome attack led by Taylor Walker and Izak Rankine was a highlight but they'll rue missed opportunities away from home.
Letter Grade: B+
The Sporting News takes a look at Adelaide’s 2023 season.
Did Adelaide over/under achieve in 2023?
Adelaide improved to 11 wins this season, after an eight-win 2022 in which the club finished 14th.
Despite missing out on finals because of a controversial goal umpire decision, the Crows showed major improvement across all areas this season.
The young side battled above its weight, coming close to Collingwood on two occasions, while also winning both Showdowns against Port Adelaide.
When the heartbreak of a final-less September clears, it will be difficult to say Adelaide's season was anything but a success.
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What worked?
In Round 19, the Crows finally gave All-Australian midfielder Matt Crouch another chance at AFL level.
The experienced onballer made an instant impact, averaging 29 disposals across six games and showing improvement in his ball use.
Likewise, Adelaide moved captain Jordan Dawson into the midfield mix alongside Rory Laird at the beginning of the season.
Although mainstays Sam Berry and Harry Schoenberg were relegated to SANFL action, the added experience of Dawson and Crouch proved valuable in 2023.
What went wrong?
Away from home, Adelaide's record was two wins, and seven losses.
It's a stark difference from their finishes at Adelaide Oval, where they took nine wins from 13 matches.
If the Crows can tidy up their away form next year, they'll have a strong chance to make their first finals series under coach Matthew Nicks.
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Adelaide best player
Two Crows had outstanding years: captain Dawson, and veteran forward Walker.
Both players were awarded their career-first All-Australian blazers for their efforts, with Walker's coming in his 16th AFL season.
The key forward kicked 76 goals in 22 games, while overtaking Tony Modra as the Crows' all-time leading goal kicker.
Although Dawson was impressive in an on-ball role, Walker's amazing season gets the nod.
Who should Adelaide target in the AFL trade period?
Like many clubs, Adelaide will be on the lookout for some backline depth, with Essendon's Brandon Zerk-Thatcher a likely option.
Still in a semi-rebuilding phase, the Crows could also look to improve their draft hand with a highly rated first round of prospects available.
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