Welcome all to the Best Buys.

The first edition of the regular season, here we will look at the "Best Buys" before the round 3 price changes. After a massive weekend of football and some fluctuating form over the first two rounds, correctional trades are increasingly important in the SC world. Instead of lecturing you all on how and when and why to trade, I will simply outline some player for you to look at if you have decided you need to make one. Hopefully not too many jumped off Lake in the aftermath of round 1, or onto Rocky and Adcock, but it certainly highlights the need for proper assesment before making that jump. Join me over the break for the Best Buys, and of course the great discussion and thumbs board for all your trading needs.

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The Best Buys uses a mix of price, form, break-evens and projected salaries to assess the Best Buys of each round. These are essentially the players that represent the best "value" which is determined by the above factors. Some player will not be mentioned on here even if they are playing well, as value is the key for this article. If a player is averaging 110, which is certainly solid, but priced at an average of 112 then they will not be rated. This does not mean these players should be avoided or not picked due to this, but simply that they arent as good "value" as the others in the Best Buys. For all the player Ive missed, and any more youre wanting opinions on, the thumbs are always there.

The thumbs act as a polling tool for the TS community, if you pose a question with either a yes-no answer or a "thumbs-up X, thumbs down Y" in there then the community as a whole can give you some great feedback into your choices and what they think about it, while also catering to the lazy amongst them that cant be bothered actually typing out a response.

GWS have offered some great rookie choices this year, and as there are a lot of them instead of doing the better options individually I have grouped them together below, so I can focus on the rest of the comp in a bit better detail. The GWS boys listed are all solid options and most teams will have at least a few of them.

GWS ROOKIES
There have been a few GWS recruits that have stood out over the pre-season and first couple of rounds, as well as a few that have looked solid enough. Below is a list of GWS rookies that have all got negative break-evens and should all make you some decent cash, albeit some at a slower rate than others, they have all played 2 games and all have as much job security as you could hope for so far. Having said that, you never know what kind of games Sheedy will start playing and nothing is ever guaranteed with rookies. They are listed highest to lowest in how much they are projected to rise by next round but should all be good options and range from almost 90k to around 30k.

Jonathan Giles (GWS) RUC 126.7k
Adam Kennedy (GWS) MID/FWD 113.2k
Toby Greene (GWS) MID 146.6k
Tomas Bugg (GWS) DEF 113.2k
Tim Mohr (GWS) DEF 124.7k
Jack Hombsch (GWS) DEF 113.2k
Devon Smith (GWS) MID/FWD 131.6k
Jeremy Cameron (GWS) FWD 113.2k
Dylan Shiel (GWS) MID 113.2k

DEFENSE
ROOKIES

Paul Bower (CAR) DEF 157.2k
Bower needs to show some good form to keep himself in the Carlton squad, with some good defenders returning from injury soon, and averaging 78 over the first 2 games of the season if he keeps up this form he may just do it. With a break-even of -60 the quick cash he should make may offset his long-term job security issues.

Marty Clarke (COL) DEF 170k
The Irishman has proved his doubters wrong thus far in 2012, averaging a solid 72 over the first 2 games of the year. At a slightly higher price he may not get a look by a few but so far has performed. A break-even of -40 means he should make a fair bit of cash first up.

Steven Morris (RIC) DEF 113.2k and Brandon Ellis (RIC) DEF 126.6k
The two Richmond rookies were harshly criticised after their first up games against the Blues, but after their second efforts and Carltons game against Brisbane it’s looking like they might not be bad cash-cow options after all. Both averaging 52 over the first 2 they have break-evens of -36 and -26 respectively and should both make some decent money.

Cameron Guthrie (GEE) DEF 184.3k
At a high rookie price Guthrie will need to play games regularly and score well to match the cheaper rookies in cash generation but early signs out of the Cattery indicate that he will have every opportunity to do this. Scott has emphasised his importance to the Cats back-line and that he will be given plenty of chances down there to prove himself. A break-even of -19 means that he should increase his value reasonably this week, so if you want to get on do it now.

MID-PRICERS

Jarryn Geary (StK) DEF 213k
Geary has had a great start to the year averaging 92 points over the first 2 and is sitting on a break-even of -54. Priced at only a little over rookie prices if he can maintain his average and keep getting quality games he may be a decent enough cash cow option by the bye rounds. Buyer beware though, playing Port and the Suns may have inflated his scores.

Courtenay Dempsey (ESS) DEF 273.8k
Dempsey has had a huge start to 2012, currently averaging 104 points and priced at under 300k he could be a bargain. Injuries are the main worry with Dempsey but for those willing to risk it the reward could be great. A break-even of -43 means this may be the only time you can grab him for less than 300k.

Jacob Surjan (PTA) DEF 216.2k
Surjan has started well this season, averaging 86 points in the first 2 games and moving fairly freely. His price should see a decent bump up from his break-even of -41 going into round 3, and could be a viable POD option for those looking for value.

Alex Rance (RIC) DEF 456.8k
Alex Rance has been in great form for the Tigers early in the season this year, averaging 118 points and looking like he could be in for a break-out year. Priced at the high end for a mid-pricer the lack of premium talent in the backline thus far means Rance should be strongly considered.

Shannon Hurn (WCE) DEF 446k
Hurn has been an up and down scorer in the past and has burnt a few coaches, but the lack of quality down back and his average of 106 early means he needs to at least be considered. If he really has turned the corner then he could be a great pick and a good POD, West Coast don’t have an abundance of premium defenders either.

Michael Hibberd (ESS) DEF 400.6k
Somewhat overlooked and in the shadow of Heppell, Hibberd has come out of the blocks firing this year, averaging 104 from the opening 2 rounds. If he maintains this form he would be a massive POD in the backline that could have some good chances. Played 9 games last year in his debut season with some injuries, but averaged 19 possessions and 11 kicks.

PREMIUMS

Brendon Goddard (StK) DEF/MID 584.7k
The few that started without Goddard this year will likely be regretting it already, so far having averaged 132 in the first 2 rounds and looking like the champion he is. If you don’t yet have him get him in.

Brett Deledio (RIC) DEF/MID 568.7k
Lids has been one of only two premium defenders to really show why they’re worth the big bucks early on this season, averaging 122 in the first two despit having little to no pre-season. Playing more through the midfield this season he could well reach personal best numbers this season.

MIDFIELD
ROOKIES

James Magner (MEL) MID 94.7k
“The Magnet” is easily the best SC rookie choice thus far in 2012. Leading the Melbourne midfield in disposals and averaging 96 in his first 2 games Magnet is sure to have a big price rise, especially when his break-even is -135. Lock him in.

Clay Smith (WBD) MID 116.6k
“Cassius” had a great debut game for the dogs, and a sub-affected second match still sees him average 64 over the 2 matches. With a break-even of -58 he will make some cash early, but job security issues may still keep some coaches wary.

Chad Wingard (PTA) MID 171.6k
The Chad MkII has impressed so far, looking like he may well earn a regular gig this season in the Port line-up. Slightly higher priced but has shown ability and a willingness to put his head over the ball and contest well, was on track for 80 odd in his last game before leaving the ground with concussion. Early talk of job security issues seem to be easing as Wingard improves.

MID-PRICERS

Lewis Jetta (SYD) MID 232.6k
Jetta has had a ripping start to this season, averaging 91 points over the first 2 games. A break-even of -41 means he should see a great price rise in the coming weeks and if he can keep his form up could make him a worthwhile mid-price pick.

Brad Ebert (PTA) MID 344.4k
Brad was talked-up all pre-season by a certain hibernating regular here on TS with a fondness for Lobster Pie, and thus far has proved to be a good tip. Averaging 112 over the first 2 rounds his break-even is sitting at -14 and he will be given every opportunity in Ports struggling mid-field. Worth a look if he fits your structure.

Scott Selwood (WCE) MID 445.8k
Scooter is another mid-pricer who was talked up a bit here pre-season, and averaging a massive 130 so far this season has paid off in spades for those that picked him. A break-even of just 11 means you may not be able to pick him up at this price again this year, and he could end up a great M7.

Chris Masten (WCE) MID 310.6k
Masten has been the bane of some SCers for the last two years, with his undoubted potential but inability to deliver consistently. Averaging 102 and with a break-even of -16 Masten is certainly on the rise early, but can he maintain it?

John McCarthy (PTA) MID 281.2k
JMac was also talked up pretty regularly here, and those that were tempted but didn’t listen may now be regretting it. An experienced body who is still sore from being dropped by the Pies expect JMac to have a solid year this year and to do everything he can to make the Pies regret the decision. Average of 87 and a break-even of -4 means he looks to be a fair way off hitting his true value this season.

Callan Ward (GWS) MID 483k
One of the two prize recruits for the Giants Ward has so far delivered. Essentially playing the “Gaz” of the GWS he may not have the same skill level but will be heavily relied upon to show leadership on the field and contest every ball. Averaging 111 with a break-even of 71 Ward may well make it to true midfield premium this year.

PREMIUMS

Brent Stanton (ESS) MID 538.8k
Stanton has started 2012 on fire. Amassing a huge average of 157 over 2 rounds his break-even is 13 and he is in the best form of his career. Injuries are a concern with Stanton, but he has proven already that removing the beard isn’t a huge problem. For those with the guts to risk him, Stanton could pay off in spades.

Josh P Kennedy (SYD) MID 520.9k
JPK is a contested ball machine, as a certain Loaf has been so very happy to point out. Contested Possessions are king in SC, and JPK has been proving it this year averaging 138 over the opening 2 games. A break-even of just 40 means he will see a decent price rise and could be in for a break-out year this year.

Simon Black (BRI) MID 507.6k
Black has shown that age isn’t necessarily a barrier when it comes to good SC scores. A massive POD Black has averaged 118 so far this season and looks to be set to hold down the Lions midfield for now. One of few players who can still score large in losses, even horrible ones, he’s a consistent ball magnet. A break-even of 71 means his price shouldn’t skyrocket, but now is definitely the time to get on if you’re keen. Edit: As has been pointed out to me in the comments, Black has broken his hand and it is not known as yet how long he will be off for. Maybe one to hold off on until we hear some more.

Sam Mitchell (HAW) MID 615k
SMitch has been impressive thus far in 2012, overlooked by many (myself included) due to him seemingly being priced accurately and Hodge offering value, but this certainly hasn’t been the case so far. Averaging 140 over the first two he is clearly still a premium mid, but Hodge hasn’t played a game yet this season and his return could well mean that SMitch sees a decline in points. As Hodge is still uncertain and SMitch’s talent is undeniable he could still be great POD on the masses.

Scott Thompson (ADE) MID 598.8k
Scotty T started the season as a lot of people were expecting, on fire. With Adelaide’s improvement this season he has a lot more support in the mid-field and more targets to hit up in the forward and has so far managed an impressive 134 average. A break-even of 96 means that if his form continues then Scotty may not be seen under 600k again this year.

Jobe Watson (ESS) MID 574.6k
Jobe’s hammies are always the point of much discussion here on TS, and this year may not be any different. He has started the year well and looks physically stronger than last year, and has been a great POD thus far from a scoring perspective. Averaging 128 with a break-even of 92 Jobe, if uninjured, seems to be underpriced and great value if snagged now.

Scott Pendlebury (COL) MID 700.5k
“Dependles” has been just that so far, averaging 147 over the first 2 games he has proven why he is the top priced player in the game this year. Some saw the 700k outlay as too much at the start of the season but with his massive numbers so far Pendles actually looks like increasing in value early on. Good luck trying to upgrade into him later if he keeps this up.

Marc Murphy (CAR) MID 639.9k
Murph has had a great start to the year, averaging 133 in some decent wins. The Blues start has shown why he is rated over Judd this season, and is looking to cement his spot in the top ten mids overall. He should increase in value by a bit early on but not by as much some others, and could still be an option for the early upgrade.

Gary Ablett Jnr (GCS) MID 689k
Gazza, as has been said before, is Gazza. Averaging 141 so far he has shown no signs of slowing down and hopefully the improving GCS midfield can offer him some better support this season. If this form continues Gazza could well be over 700k before long.

RUCK
ROOKIES

Jarrad Redden (PTA) RUC 113.2k
Redden has performed quite well in the real stuff this year, if not quite as well as in the pre-season. Averaging 66 with a break-even of -63 he may not skyrocket in value but if he can get regular games he should still be great cash-cow. For those without him I’d strongly recommend bringing him in before the price rises.

MID-PRICERS

Patrick Ryder (ESS) RUC 492.6k
Paddy Ryder has impressed so far this year, racking up huge numbers playing as a forward ruck in a couple of close games. Averaging 132 over 2 games, with a break-even of just 35, he has been a great pick for those who risked him early. The big question will be whether or not he can continue this form but with the Essendon midfield firing he will certainly have the support he needs to do so.

Matthew Kreuzer (CAR) RUC 418.3k
The Kreuz has shown good form this season, racking up clearances and possessions through the midfield while also spending large chunks of time in the ruck. One of a few ruckman who score more points through their versatility rather than ruckwork his form may be dependent on the teams performance but with Carlton looking good early on this may not be a real barrier.

PREMIUMS

Aaron Sandilands (FRE) RUC 600.5k
Lurch has shown once again why size really does matter. Almost no pre-season to speak of Lurch has dominated early games with his sheer size. His troublesome toe seems to be a non-issue this year, so far, and if this and his 131 average continue then he could well regain the title of number one ruckman in the comp.

Nic Naitanui (WCE) RUC 508.8k
NicNat has done what everyone suspected he would, and that’s start to take ruck-time of the big Cox. Luckily he hasn’t affected Cox too much at this early stage but enough for him to see a few more points come his way. Averaging 110 and switching between ruck, midfield and forward he is versatile enough that he should still score well even when not rucking. The Fijian Kreuz is looking like a winner at this stage.

FORWARD
ROOKIES

Terry Milera (StK) FWD 124.7k
Milera was overlook during the pre-season, in favour of Saad and Cripps who were seen as having better job security. He has proven to be a great scorer for the Saints though, averaging 86, and should make some good cash for his coaches with a break-even of -95. One of the best forward rookie option so far, based on performance, Milera will be heavily traded into this week.

Rhys Stanley (StK) FWD 176.2k
Stanley has shown some real flair this season, averaging 90 with a break-even of -74, and looks to be set to rise sharply in price after round 3. Priced as a high draft pick his experience in the system should help, however game-time may be an issue when the Saints recall some of their senior players.

MID-PRICERS

Tom Hawkins (GEE) FWD 377.3k
Tomahawk has carried on his form from the finals last season, averaging 118 over the first two including a massive 150+ against the Hawks on Monday he has shown he could be here to stay. A risk in terms on consistency Tomahawk will be a bargain if he can keep up this level of output. At a break-even of -7 this may be the cheapest we see him in 2012.

Chad Cornes (GWS) FWD 378.3k
The original Chad, Studly has looked the goods so far. In a weak GWS line-up he has spent considerable time floating across the back-line taking intercept marks and racking up some easy possessions. He was said to be too slow for AFL these days, but in a team where simply being able to mark and not be thrown around by your opponents speed really doesn’t seem to be an issue. Averaging 112 with a break-even of just 4 The Chad could be a great POD this season.

Luke Dahlhaus (WBD) FWD 355.8k
Dahlhaus Has started this season like he finished last, impressively. Averaging 99 points over the opening 2 rounds he looks great as a second year pick. The second year blues don’t seem to be an issue so far and WBD are crying out for strong forward options. Stints through the midfield certainly won’t hurt his case either.

Jack Darling (WCE) FWD 376.8k
Darling is a monster. Averaging 100 points this season to date he has shown why the Eagles were willing to take a punt on him. With injuries to a few WCE forwards Darling will be relied upon more this year, and his size and strength mean he looks ready for the extra responsibility.

James Podsiadly (GEE) FWD 430.2k
Pods has started the year well after missing most of the GF last season, averaging 106 points and with a break-even of 49 he could be back to the form that made him such a great rookie. If he keeps his average up he will be in the top ten forwards this year, but unfortunately that is a decent sized if. Geelongs form may well be decided by their forward marking options.

Nick Riewoldt (StK) FWD 472.4k
The much maligned Roo has been in great form early this year, averaging 112 points from his two games, unfortunately the two games were against Port and GCS. Many think his shocking 2011 is a sign that the days of Roo’s dominance are over, but the new coach may well have implemented new plans over the off-season to bring Riewoldt back to his best. A risky pick but if he can perform at this level consistently then definitely a worthy one.

PREMIUMS

Travis Cloke (COL) FWD 529.8k
Travis Cloke is the only premium forward to make the best buys this week, with an average of 110 and a break-even of 102. Many premium forwards have started slowly this season, with only one good game from two, but Cloke has kept his average up and performed well in both clashes so far and is looking as strong a mark as ever. The leading contested marking player in the comp last year if his accuracy improves this season he could be one of the best forwards around.


That does it from me for another week, so hopefully this has been of some help or at least given you something to think about. Dont forget about the thumbs and good luck for the upcoming round, Ill see you all in the comments. Remember all feedback is appreciated!