AFL trades: Scott Lycett to Port Adelaide; West Coast hole filled by Tom Hickey

Mick Stirling

AFL trades: Scott Lycett to Port Adelaide; West Coast hole filled by Tom Hickey image

West Coast has chosen not to match Port Adelaide’s offer to free agent Scott Lycett, a decision that could get a couple of other big trade moves happening.

The Power will sign Lycett to a five-year deal believed to be worth $3 million, as they look to make life easier for All Australian ruckman Paddy Ryder.

The Eagles have received an end-of-first-round compensation pick in this year’s draft, currently number 20 overall.

That selection will give the reigning premiers a bit of choice in how they can satisfy Geelong for homesick West Australian Tim Kelly.

MORE: All the trade news HERE  | Connolly: List balance the key to trade period

The Cats have said they will only accept a top-10 pick for Kelly.

West Coast now holds 20 and 22 which could be packaged together and swapped for a higher selection, but they are still unlikely to be able to meet Geelong’s early demands.

It’s also unlikely the Eagles would be happy to lose their early picks and enter the draft at the end of the second round, currently 39.

However, on Wednesday, contracted St Kilda ruckman Tom Hickey was officially traded to West Coast.

The deal sees the Saints receive pick 39 from the Eagles, who pick up No.60.

A knee injury that has Nic Naitanui sidelined for most of 2019 leaves them with only Nathan Vardy as a recognised ruckman - but the Hickey trade will change that.

 

Mick Stirling