Jonathan Brown has delivered his Unconventional Club Review of Brisbane for season 2020.
Brown was asked to answer a list of questions about the Lions relating to their performance this year and what they need to improve in 2021.
Have the Lions got the right captain? If not, who?
Brown: "I'm happy not to rock the boat and stick with Dayne Zorko, I think he's done a good job even though his form dropped away in the second half of the year.
"I think another year to bridge over to Harris Andrews, who will be the next captain. I think he'll be captain for the better part of five or six-plus years."
Garry Lyon: "I said yes to the Zork for another few years."
Who is the Lions' next All-Australian?
Brown: "He was in the squad last year, Hugh McCluggage.
"Hugh McCluggage on a wing, I think he should have already been there.
"Another underrated player - the only man to stop Dustin Martin in the finals series - Darcy Gardiner."
Garry Lyon: "I've got Hugh McCluggage down as well, he'll get there in the next year or two."
If “player x” plays well, the Lions are always a chance of winning?
Brown: "Eric Hipwood. He doesn't have to kick big numbers of goals but I think when he's up and about … the Lions are always a big shot.
"Expect him to keep improving."
Garry Lyon: "When little Charlie (Cameron) lights the joint up then the Brisbane Lions are in a very, very good space."
Left-field trade option?
Brown: "I know Brisbane likes to play three forwards but Joe Daniher, Eric Hipwood and Dan McStay - is that one too many?
"I just wonder whether Dan McStay is worth offering up, I certainly think there would be some value there.
"The one who was probably out of favour but would be well sought after by other clubs is Alex Witherden."
Garry Lyon: "I've got Witherden."
Left-field trade target?
Brown: "Jack Redden's still got his house in Brisbane, I'd go after Jack Redden.
"I think the midfield needs some more run and pop and a little bit of experience in there to bolster it to go to the next level. I'd ask a few questions about Jack Redden."
Garry Lyon: "I'd put a call in to Shaun Higgins before he commits to Geelong."
Which player is deserving of a pay rise?
Brown: "I think Brandon Starcevich really came onto the scene this year as a big, strong half-back flanker.
"I wouldn't be giving too many pay rises out, I want to keep them hungry."
Garry Lyon: "I would write a cheque for a few extra sheets to Ryan Lester.
"He fought outside his weight division, he had to take on some big, big jobs and I thought he got the job done pretty well."
Who deserves a pay cut?
Brown: "We've got to prepare for the future. I think the older guys; Mitch Robinson, Stef Martin, Grant Birchall and I think the captain Dayne Zorko.
"I think it's time for those guys to move back in the pay scale to allow some room for these young stars to work their way up."
Garry Lyon: "Stef Martin for me."
Expect a big 2021 from?
Brown: "Cam Rayner. 17 goals this year, he started to get fitter and work his way into the midfield.
"He showed his capability in that first final against Richmond.
"Also keep an eye on young Zac Bailey and Jack Payne."
Garry Lyon: "I put Jack Payne down.
"I thought he stepped up for Harris Andrews (out with a hamstring) and I thought he showed plenty during that final when most of them were battling."
Big positional change in 2021?
Brown: "I think Oscar McInerney will be the full-time ruckman.
"I'd like to see Dayne Zorko as a full-time forward this year."
Garry Lyon: "I'd love to see him (Cam Rayner) become a big midfielder (like Christian Petracca)."