Trade Recap: Eagles Nab Morton, Cripps, Keep Brown

It was quite the hectic last few days of the new extended trade period, as Stevens and Stevenson (who apparently played for us) both seeking to join teams who won't ever win anything. Stevens went to the Dogs for pick 44, whilst Stevenson went to an even worse 'team' in the Power for pick 88.

But in more interesting and relevant news, we (finally) managed to secure young forward/midfield Jamie Cripps without giving up Mitch Brown. I think the club made the right decision in keeping Brown. Sure, we may lose him for nothing at the end of the season, but he's critical for our depth for at least the next year. Plus, Brown may be able to force himself into the team, or (god forbid) Glass may call it quits.

As for the Cripps deal, we gave up picks 41 and 44 but received pick 46 back. It seems like a decent deal. Cripps has 'potential' and he is more likely to develop with us than with the Saints.

Finally, the Eagles also traded for Cale Morton, something which seemed to come out of nowhere. We gave pick 88 in return, a low risk investment. He didn't impress with his time as a Demon (drafted 4th overall in 2007) but sometimes a change of scenery (ie leaving an awful team for one of the best) can do wonders. Plus, he's probably a lot better than his brother.

Overall, it was a lively free agency/trade period for the club. I think we gained more than we lost, with Wellingham sure to add some class to the midfield whilst Cripps and Morton provide good depth. Lynch hasn't been important for a couple of years, whilst the three other 'losses' just couldn't cut it (though Swift, MD will soon be cutting something). The retention of Brown was an especially strong move by the club.

Incomings
Sharrod Wellingham (Collingwood)
Jamie Cripps (St Kilda)
Cale Morton (Melbourne)

Outgoings
Lynch (Collingwood)
Stevens (Bulldogs)
Stevenson (Power)
Swift (UWA)