Two years since being the number two draft pick, Josh Schache is at the nadir of his value. Struggling to get a game in the surprisingly stout Brisbane fowardline, it appeared that there was no clear place for him going forward at the Gabba.
The Dogs, however, need all the help they can get up forward if they are to make the finals in 2018. Schache comes at a much cheaper price than the last top 3 drafted key position forward that the Dogs acquired.
On paper, and more importantly right now, the Dogs might be overpaying for the Schache we have seen at AFL and NEAFL level. If Schache can rediscover and build on his under 18s form, this will be a very good deal for the Dogs. But that is a pretty sizable “if”.
Verdict: A Lions win.