Sydney has started the season in superb fashion winning all three games reasonably comfortably.
They trounced reigning premier Richmond by 45 points at the MCG last weekend which only further enhanced their credentials as a genuine contender.
John Longmire’s Swans have jumped up the ladder from a 16th-placed finish last year and there are several reasons for their sudden improvement, including recruiting.
Matthew Richardson has named one Swan who has contributed greatly to the unbeaten beginning, praising the club for his recruitment.
“Tom Hickey is just about recruit of the year at the moment,” he said on Sportsday.
“What a masterstroke that was getting him with obviously (Sam) Naismith (being out) with his knee.”
Hickey joined the Swans from West Coast last trade period in a deal involving an exchange of draft picks.
He has hit the ground running with his fourth AFL club, averaging a career-high 15.7 disposals to go with 21 hitouts per game.
Richardson also pinpointed Sydney’s new-look attack which has kicked 54 goals and a league-high 363 points total after three rounds of footy, while also tipping his hat to the midfield and defence.
“What a forward line they’re starting to put together,” he added.
“Everyone is super dangerous. (Isaac) Heeney, young Logan McDonald, (Errol) Gulden, (Tom) Papley.
“Particularly (Calum) Mills has gone into the midfield, Heeney looks fit, strong and hungry, Buddy’s (Lance Franklin) back and all of this young talent.
“(Tom) McCartin, that’s been a great move. Late last year it looked good, McCartin going back. They’ve stuck with it.
“Their new ball movement, the new defensive system they have...”
Before the season kicked off, the Swans were considered outsiders to play finals but if they can beat Essendon at the SCG on Thursday night, they will hold a 4-0 record placing them in a strong position to return to September action.
“Normally 12 wins and you’re pretty guaranteed,” Richardson said.
“That means now they’ve only got to go 50-50 and they play finals.
“They look like they can go 50-50. I think they can do that.”