Tim Watson believes Hawthorn must look to secure top-end talent via the draft if they’re to return as a genuine premiership contender.
The Hawks, who have the oldest list in the competition, have had access to the first round of the draft just once in the past eight years, instead opting to part ways with early picks to actively pursue ready-made talent.
Alastair Clarkson’s side sit in 10th spot with a 5-5 record and look unlikely to mount a serious challenge for this year’s flag, prompting Watson to suggest that securing younger talent should be the way forward to build their next great team.
“I think there comes a time because you can go out there and you can buy players, we all know that, but then you’ve got to fit them into your salary cap,” the Essendon great told SEN Breakfast.
“You’re going to have to have some lower end, lower paid talented players on your list, and the best way to do that is to go and get early draft picks … to add to whatever else you’ve got there.
“It helps you to build the core of your future too.”
GWS pair Stephen Coniglio and Jonathon Patton have emerged as early trade targets for Hawthorn who will have salary cap space to target big-name players when the trade period begins in October.
The Hawks travel to Brisbane to take on the Lions at the Gabba on Saturday night.
Listen to the best bits from this morning's edition of SEN Breakfast with Garry Lyon and Tim Watson in the player below