Hawks have Pies’ big man in sights
COLLINGWOOD is determined to keep out-of-contract big man Max Lynch as the Hawks weigh up a move.
The Magpies have only two ruckmen under contract, Brodie Grundy and Darcy Cameron, with the future for Lynch and Mason Cox still to be determined.
It’s understood Collingwood has told Lynch, 23, it wants to retain him.
Lynch has played only three senior games in five seasons since being one of the last footballers picked in the 2016 rookie draft.
But his development at second-tier-level has turned heads at ruck-needy clubs, including averaging 13 disposals, 32 hitouts (eight to advantage) and 3.4 clearances in the VFL this year. Most signs have pointed to Cox leaving the club — potentially for Brisbane Lions — but what happens with Lynch could decide whether he stays in black and white. Hawthorn inquired about Lynch last year while he was still under contract and he is again on the club’s radar.
The Hawks have confirmed their interest but are yet to formally discuss the ruckman with the Pies. Hawthorn also met contracted Port Adelaide big man Peter Ladhams but pulled out of that race when Power said it wanted a first-round pick in return. Lynch would come much cheaper if he ends up requesting a trade to Waverley Park.