Demon may surprise a few
MELBOURNE could pull one of the biggest selection surprises of the opening round, with former gun basketballer Joel Smith close to a Round 1 debut.
Demons coach Simon Goodwin is considering playing the spring-heeled defender to help cover injured backmen Michael Hibberd (achilles) and Colin Garland (knee) against St Kilda on Saturday.
At 191cm, Smith has been likened to Western Bulldogs’ premiership defender Easton Wood for his speed and courageous intercept marking.
Smith, 21, whose high-flying father Shaun is renowned for taking one of the game’s greatest marks against Brisbane Lions at the Gabba in 1995, was in the Australian under-19 basketball squad two years ago.
But the powerful defender developed quickly in his first senior football season playing for Casey in the VFL last year and has surged into the frame after an encouraging summer.
His dynamic run and strong marking would complement key defensive pillars Oscar and Tom McDonald and speedster Jayden Hunt in the back half.
Goodwin also faces a tough decision on Jack Watts after overlooking him for the first two preseason games due to his training form.
He has refused to guarantee Watts’ selection despite finishing fifth in Melbourne’s best and fairest last season.
Meanwhile, St Kilda will be without midfielders Leigh Montagna and Koby Stevens for Saturday’s clash. They are expected to be available for selection next round.