GIANTS TO KEEP THE BAR RAISED

The Giants proved last year that at their best they’re almost untouchable.

The early signs in practice matches have been strong, with Tom Green ready to elevate his game again. But the key is getting the same pressure from Toby Bedford, Brent Daniels and young kids such as Harvey Thomas and Phoenix Gothard coming through.

They’re certainly fit and ready mentally, and bringing their intensity from the first bounce against Collingwood is the perfect way to make sure it translates on the field.

CAN EXPERIENCED PLAYERS LIFT AGAIN?

A slightly unheralded part of the Giants’ success in 2023 was the ability to get the best out of their stalwarts. Toby Greene was rightly lauded and named AllAustralian captain, but Stephen Coniglio, Josh Kelly, Callan Ward and Lachie Whitfield were superb through the midfield. Jesse

Hogan also had one of his most consistent years to finish with 49 goals. Last season gave them the belief that if they all click, they’re a dangerous proposition.

FINDING SIZE AND SPEED BALANCE

The beauty of the Giants’ game plan is the buy-in across the squad, with all players contributing to the high press up forward. Bedford and Daniels lead the charge but it’s a team effort to create turnovers and scoring opportunities.

With Darcy Jones, Thomas, Gothard and Nathan Wardius all pushing through, there could be a temptation to go small to dominate in that area. Finding the right balance and working the likes of Aaron Cadman into the side will be the key to long-term success.

IS THERE ENOUGH DEPTH?

The Giants were relatively settled with injuries in 2023, which aided their run to the preliminary final. Now, outside a few early season niggles, they’re set to have their full squad available from about round 5. But there are a few positions, such as in the ruck with Kieren Briggs, where their back-up isn’t as strong.

Options include Cadman and Riccardi rotating through the stoppages while Braydon Preuss is managing a back injury. Overseeing vital players such as Briggs, Hogan and Sam Taylor through an entire season when they’ve had injury troubles in the past could be coach Adam Kingsley’s greatest challenge.