Just a week after Harley Reid’s standout performance in the western derby, reports suggest that the West Coast prodigy is slated for a rest this upcoming weekend.
Additionally, there’s speculation surrounding a contractual “loophole” that could elevate the No. 1 draft pick’s salary to $1 million in only his third AFL season.
Reid delivered an impressive display in the Eagles’ 37-point victory against Fremantle, contributing three goals from 19 disposals, narrowly missing out on the Glendinning-Allan Medal by a single vote.
The immense excitement surrounding Reid, particularly in Western Australia, has been further heightened by his recent stellar performance. However, the 19-year-old won’t have an immediate opportunity to build on his impressive showing, as he is expected to be managed for Sunday’s game against the Suns at People First Stadium.
Discussing the situation on Fox Footy’s Midweek Tackle, Herald Sun journalist Sam Landsberger expressed disappointment, stating, “It sucks a lot of life out of this game.” The decision to rest Reid aims to keep him fresh for upcoming matches against Essendon and Collingwood in the following weeks.
Recent revelations on Midweek Tackle unveiled that Reid’s earnings could see a significant increase in his third season if he meets certain marketing bonuses outlined in his contract. These bonuses include finishing in the top 10 of the Brownlow Medal, the top five in the club’s best and fairest, the top five in the AFL Rising Star, making the All-Australian squad, or receiving a Rising Star nomination (for players with 20+ senior matches and picked in the top 5).
With these potential earnings increases and Reid’s eligibility to sign a contract extension beyond his standard three-year deal, several clubs may be interested in securing his services. However, there’s currently no indication that Reid is inclined to explore other options, and the unique aspect of his contract with the Eagles is likely to bolster the club’s prospects of retaining him in the long term.
“He definitely has the potential to become a $1 million player in his third season. This is a contractual loophole, and it’s relatively new,” explained Jay Clark, a journalist from the Herald Sun.
“We know that first and second-year players don’t earn much — Harley earned $130,000 plus $4000 match payments this year, and his earnings will increase to $200,000 next season.
“In his third year, he could significantly increase his earnings at West Coast, potentially doubling or tripling his salary. This could play a crucial role in retaining him at the club.
“If he meets one of the criteria outlined in the contract, he could earn an additional $500,000 to $600,000 through an additional service agreement.
“West Coast has $1.25 million available for player contracts, so it’s likely that Harley Reid would receive a substantial portion of that.”
Lauren Wood, another Herald Sun reporter, noted, “We witnessed his on-field performance over the weekend, and he also demonstrated his personality in a radio interview with David Mundy. He has the charisma to match his on-field abilities.
“It’s difficult to argue that he’s not worth that kind of money at the moment.”
Landsberger also believes that a seven-figure deal is well-deserved for Reid, as he has already contributed to West Coast’s marketing efforts “for the next 10 years.”
He added, “I also think about the other players — Caleb Windsor, Nate Caddy, and Ryley Sanders. These are all players drafted last year who have a strong chance of meeting the criteria and securing lucrative contracts in their third year.”
