Welcome all to the Best Buys, and especially those still in their finals campaigns or in contention for overall, with the season that was 2012 either are a good effort.

As the finals continue and the season draws to a close, the Best Buys are drying up also, with not many rookies being introduced and the General waiting in the wings to mess with the best laid plans. Hawthorn players will be viewed with scepticism after last years finals antics by Clarko, but this year its looking likely that they wont be the only ones.

My pick of the week this week, is Chris Judd. After a suspension lay-off he should be fresh and full of run, and looking to make up for his indiscretions. A star of the game, real and SC, Juddy will also make a great POD for many coaches as the majority who held him were forced to trade when his suspension hit. Personally Im expecting a big game from Juddy this weekend.

For the rest of the Best Buys, and all your thumb needs as always, join me over the break.

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INFO

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 aren’t as good “value” as the others in the Best Buys. For all the players I’ve missed, and any more you’re 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 can’t be bothered actually typing out a response.

The “Waiting List” section at the end of the article shows players who are looking like being great buys but for whatever reason will be better looked at in the coming weeks rather than this one. In the case of the first few names on the list this is because they have only played one game (indicated by the * next to their single game score) and you will have one more week to assess them, having only played one match they do not have a salary prediction either, for the others on the list it is usually because they will be decreasing in value this round based on current predictions and could be picked up cheaper the next week. Some players on the Waiting List will not make the next Best Buys, due to only a small decrease in price etc, and so it is something you should keep an eye on regularly. The Waiting List also includes a projected salary drop over the next round for each player.


DEFENSE
ROOKIES

Michael Talia (WBD) DEF 106.6k
Talia was talked up a bit during pre-season this year, but has taken a fair while to reach the bubble. Averaging 48 over his first two games he has shown a bit, but more importantly is a defensive downgrade when they are in short supply. Similar to other rookies he is a big risk, but many will just be looking at how much money they can make on the downgrade.

MID-PRICERS

Andrew Carrazzo (CAR) D/M 499.5k
Amazingly Carrots is still priced under 500 grand. In good form since his return from injury he would have to be one of the higher averaging defenders over the last few weeks, and a great pick-up for those still without him.

Brendon Goddard (StK) D/M 465.1k
Goddard has kept his spot in the best buys recently simply due to his pricing. Averaging 100 for the season as a D/M he hasn’t lived up to his own standards but is still a quality pick by others. Priced at under 470 grand, you won’t find a better defender for less.

PREMIUMS

Heath Scotland (CAR) D/M 509k
Scotland is now priced at a bit over 500 grand, but still more than worth it. Can have quiet games when tagged, however Juddys return may help with that aspect as he draws the opposition taggers. Averaging 102 for the year as a DPP (dual position player) he has been consistently good, without being great.

Brett Deledio (RIC) D/M 568.4k
To many Lids has broken into the elite ranks this year, averaging 117 for the season and probably being the Tiges most influential player. Spending the majority of his matches now through the midfield he will probably not be defense eligible next season, so take advantage of it now while you still can. A popular pick so more of a nullifying selection than POD.

MIDFIELD
ROOKIES

Aiden Riley (ADE) MID 132.3k
Aiden is on the bubble this week, averaging 42 over his first two games and looking to rise around 20 grand after his next match. There are always risks associated with rookies breaking in to a side this late in the season, but most coaches at this stage will be focussing on the cash generation side of things anyway.

Jonathan Simpkin (GEE) MID 113.2k
Simpkin is another of a few new rookies on the bubble this round, however many coaches will be wary of all of the new additions, simply because they could be only being used as cover for some pre-AFL finals restings. Job security is an issue but for those who simply need the money, Simpkin appears as good a choice as any.

Thomas Ledger (StK) MID 113.2k
Tommy Ledger is finally on the bubble, after spending a considerable amount of time on many benches earlier in the season before being moved on. Can’t say I’ve heard much about him recently, but previous burn factor says “nothing to see here” for mine.

Jason Johannisen (WBD) MID 113.2k
The South African is now on the bubble after passing the magical 2-game barrier, and averaged 57 in those two games to do so. Uncertain job security, but the Dogs may well look to play more of their rookies in the last few matches as their finals hopes are gone.

MID-PRICERS

Scott Thompson (ADE) MID 491.9k
Scotty T has been in a small form slump of late, however his price of under 500 grand means he certainly needs to be considered. His season average of 112 even with a poor run shows the quality that he is capable of.

PREMIUMS

Rory Sloane (ADE) MID 511.4k
Sloane is a great POD, playing in a quality side with an easy run home. Average of 109 for the year shows he is capable of good numbers, while his price of about 510 grand means he is one of the cheaper premium midfielders going around. Worth a risk for those facing finals elimination.

Chris Judd (CAR) MID 524.2k
Juddy is set to return this week, and become a very tasty POD for the finals. If he can stay out of trouble, and not try and pull anyone’s arms off, then he will be looking to atone for his recent misdeeds and subsequent games missed. With the Blues still a sneaky chance at finals, expect him to go all out this weekend.

Marc Murphy (CAR) MID 546.4k
Murphs price continues to rise after his successful return from injury, now reaching almost 550 grand, but his numbers have shown that he can still be considered under-priced. Another Blue set for a big game to keep their finals hopes alive, SMurph will no doubt be giving his all in the remainder of the season.

Jobe Watson (ESS) MID 597.7k
Jobe continues on his way to the Brownlow, almost singlehandedly dragging the Bombers through more than one game so far this season. Priced at just under 600 grand for a player averaging 125 he represents good value, and is a player of true class.

Gary Ablett Jr (GCS) MID 690.2k
Gazza, again. More massive scores, more Gazza. Not much more to say really…

Joel Selwood (GEE) MID 554.3k
Ducky is still pumping out good scores, and still at an affordable price. Currently about 50 grand under-valued he will be leading the Cats campaign for 2 in a row, and so far has the numbers to back it up. Good choice in a team that is really starting to click at the right time.

Sam Mitchell (HAW) MID 528.5k
SMitch is probably the form player at Hawthorn at the moment, averaging 112 for the year and priced at only 528 grand. A classy player SMitch will be leading from the front as the Hawks try to make it to the big game, and he is not as popular a pick this year meaning he may offer some POD elements, without a lot of the usually associated risks.

Andrew Swallow (NM) MID 558.2k
Swallow has had an interesting year in 2012, receiving much greater attention from opposition taggers after his break-out year last year and he has flown under the SC radar for many. Averaging a good 111 for the season he hasn’t quite smashed it, but provides a valuable POD as the Roos fight out the remainder of their year.

Trent Cotchin (RIC) MID 563.7k
Cotch has been good this year, without quite being great. Averaging 115 for the season, including a massive 175 in his last game, he has been overlooked by many coaches and could provide some good value over the SC finals. While he hasn’t been incredibly popular this season, expect to see him in a lot of starting sides in 2013.

Josh P Kennedy (SYD) MID 582.1k
JPK is showing some of the signs he showed earlier in the year, lifting his game again and showing why he was such a popular early season pick. Averaging 121 for the season and priced at around 580 grand he is a quality player, and in a quality side looking for a top four finish. Definitely one to consider if you don’t have him already.

Matthew boyd (WBD) MID 516.8k
Boydy, while not in his best form recently, is a very affordable sub 520 grand at the moment, and for a player of his quality that’s a decent bargain. Questions over his form will deter many, but Boydy isn’t the kind of player to just lie down. The Struggling Dogs will not be making the finals this year, but will want to finish off the season with some pride.

Matt Priddis (WCE) MID 563.5k
Priddis has made his way back into the Best Buys, as a good POD option and a great player when on his game. Averaging 110 for the year and priced at 560 odd grand his price is about where it should be, but he always the potential to score considerably more than his averages.

RUCK
MID-PRICERS

Shane Mumford (SYD) RUC 411k
Mummy has caused a lot of frustration this year with his constant injuries, and has made his return yet again to knock up a decent 116 in his last game. Massive POD, but will anyone really be brave enough to risk it?

PREMIUMS

Ivan Maric (RIC) RUC 591k
The Mullet has been a revelation for the Tigers this year, up there with Lids for his impact on games the big ruckman has posted great numbers and not missed much footy at all. Averaging 114 for the season and priced at just under 600 grand, he will be a very popular pick next year.

Ben McEvoy (StK) RUC 519.5k
McEvoy has been building into some good form recently, increasing his years average up to 104, while still at an affordable 520 grand. If the Saints continue to play good footy he should keep getting good scores, but has had an inconsistent year. Certain POD for most leagues.

Dean Cox (WCE) RUC 554.3k
Big Coxy showed he is still capable of racking up the huge scores, last weekend dominating all with a score of 190 on the rebound from his sub 80 the previous week. Incredibly frustrating captain choice, but out and out quality player who overall will deliver. The emergence of NicNat has slowed him down this season, but that just brings him back to the pack of leading SC ruckmen.

Nic Naitanui (WCE) RUC 562.4k
NicNat is still one of the better SC ruck choices, and West Coast are starting to show some good fight again. He will be a lock for many next season, and for good reason, and will be looking to finish the year strong as West Coast fight prime themselves for finals.

Sam Jacobs (ADE) RUC 524.3k
Sauce is another player in his break-out year, however his has been a bit more up and down than most. Averaging 102 for the season he has some decent numbers, and with the Crows run home he could make a valuable POD option.

FORWARD
MID-PRICERS

Steele Sidebottom (COL) M/F 496.4k
Sidey’s been in a bit of a slump as of late, but while this means his numbers are down it also means his price is too. Under 500 grand for a M/F averaging 108 for the year is certainly a tasty prospect, and possibly too good for many to resist. Even with his recent form Sidey is still a worthwhile option, especially if he upgrades anyone else than Zorko.

Stevie Johnson (GEE) FWD 452.1k
Stevie J has been up and down all year this season, and is currently priced at a nice 450 grand after pumping out a very healthy 140 last week. Has gone missing in a few games which is always a worry, but the Cats are flying at the moment and Stevie J is always one of their go-to guys.

PREMIUMS

Patrick Dangerfield (ADE) M/F 604.1k
Paddy’s star continues to rise in fantasy football circles, his 116 average for the season is impressive enough, but when you throw in his 149 average over the last 3 games, including a massive 187 last match, it’s easy to see why. One of the most popular picks in SC over the year, if he isn’t in your team yet he could cause you some serious pain over the finals.

Dayne Beams (COL) M/F 631.4k
Beams has continued his recent great form, and is now averaging 141 over his last three games. His price continues to rise however, and many coaches who are loathe to bring in players at the high point of their pricing scale may miss out by going for value over current quality. A popular pick, even if he misses games it will be a pretty common problem across the board.

Matthew Pavlich (FRE) M/F 625.1k
The Pav has been on fire over the last 2 months, which explains his current price which is around 75 grand overs on his average for the season. Lyin will be desperate to push Freo into the finals this year, and so far Pav has been leading their late-season charge. Personally I would avoid, but for many the chance to bring in the form forward in the game currently will be too great to resist.

WAITING LIST

Brendan Lee (ESS) MID 94.7k 63*
Tim Golds (GWS) D/M 113.2k 30*
Nathan Blee (PTA) DEF 106.6k 27*
Lin Jong (WBD) MID 114.7k 56*
Fletcher Roberts (WBD) FWD 106.6k 22*
Heath Shaw (COL) DEF 499.2k -16k