1) Essendon may find a solution to cover for Peter Wright’s absence after all. Wright will be sidelined for the next three games due to suspension, but the Bombers showed promising signs of adjustment in their recent match against St Kilda. Despite missing Wright, they demonstrated effectiveness in their gameplay, particularly in the second half when they capitalized on lower passes. Harry Jones, a new inclusion, displayed energy and served as a strong target upfront, while Kyle Langford continued his impressive form. Additionally, the acquisition of Todd Goldstein allows Essendon to deploy Sam Draper strategically. With a solid midfield lineup, star player Jake Stringer can spend more time in the attacking zone, showcasing his potency as seen in the recent game against the Saints. While Wright’s absence is notable, the Bombers appear capable of managing without him for now. – Sarah Black
2) Despite facing injuries, Fremantle’s defense is thriving. Following injuries to key players after round one, including Brennan Cox, Oscar McDonald, and Karl Worner, concerns arose about the Dockers’ defensive strength. However, the remarkable performances of Alex Pearce, Luke Ryan, and Jordan Clarke, along with the emergence of youngster Josh Draper, have transformed a potential weakness into a significant asset for the Dockers, who currently hold a 3-0 record. Pearce and Ryan are showcasing All-Australian form, while Clarke provides vital drive and speed from the backline. Draper’s promising debut suggests he could be a valuable find from the Next Generation Academy. Meanwhile, Hayden Young’s retention in the midfield has proven beneficial, with his standout performance against Adelaide underscoring his impact. – Nathan Schmook
3) Collingwood made a pivotal strategic move with Nick Daicos. Despite emphasizing suffocating pressure as the primary factor in securing their first win against Brisbane, Collingwood’s strategic adjustment played a significant role. Moving Nick Daicos from midfield back to his former position on a half-back flank reignited Collingwood’s dynamic gameplay, which had appeared subdued in the previous winless games. Daicos’ exceptional performance, marked by 30 disposals and seven score involvements, was instrumental in challenging Brisbane’s defense. While it’s only one win, the strategic shift has injected optimism into the reigning premiers’ campaign, especially with a series of upcoming matches in Melbourne. – Michael Whiting
4) Richmond’s collective pressure makes them a formidable opponent. Despite a challenging start to the season, Richmond’s cohesive pressure-focused gameplay against the Swans demonstrated their capability to challenge strong teams. Through relentless efforts across the ground, the Tigers effectively limited the Swans’ ball movement, leading to multiple holding the ball free kicks. This collective mindset, evident from players like Liam Baker and Tom Lynch, highlights the Tigers’ potential when executing their game plan effectively. Coach Adem Yze’s emotional first win reflects the team’s commitment to their pressure-oriented style, making them a daunting prospect for future opponents. – Gemma Bastiani
5) The acquisition of Elijah Hollands could prove to be a masterstroke for Carlton. While every top-10 draft pick garners attention, Elijah Hollands’ arrival at Carlton went somewhat unnoticed due to Gold Coast’s numerous early selections. However, his standout debut against North Melbourne suggests Carlton secured a bargain during the trade period. In his most impressive game to date, Hollands showcased his talents with 22 disposals, five tackles, and a goal, indicating his potential impact. With brother Ollie also gaining popularity among fans, the duo has the potential to make significant contributions to Carlton’s success. – Howard Kimber
6) Tom Liberatore’s record-breaking performance underscores his importance to the Western Bulldogs. Known for his exceptional contested possessions, Liberatore surpassed the Bulldogs’ club record for career contested possessions, previously held by Matthew Boyd. His outstanding performance against the Eagles, which included 11 contested possessions in just 59% game time, solidifies his status as a vital asset to the team. Despite still trailing Patrick Dangerfield’s all-time record, Liberatore’s dominance in contested situations remains unmatched within the Bulldogs’ lineup. – Alison O’Connor
7) Port Adelaide’s success hinges on Charlie Dixon’s form and fitness. To fulfill their premiership aspirations, Port Adelaide relies heavily on Charlie Dixon’s contributions throughout the season. Despite facing injury setbacks in recent years, Dixon’s performance against Melbourne showcased his impact, characterized by strong marks and contested play. While he missed scoring opportunities, Dixon’s effectiveness could be pivotal if he maintains consistent performance and accuracy throughout the season, providing coach Ken Hinkley with a potent offensive weapon. – Howard Kimber
