Hypothetically, if Sam Mitchell and Hawthorn were to move Tom Mitchell on, what would he be worth?
Despite the midfielder stating he would like to remain with the Hawks, the chatter endures about a possible trade at season’s end.
The 29-year-old is contracted for 2023, but he is playing a less central role under his namesake who is placing more faith in youth.
The name of the 2018 Brownlow Medallist continues to be bandied around in trade circles, prompting a discussion on Sportsday between Gerard Healy and Sam McClure.
“If they don’t want him there and they want a draft pick, it’s time to go,” said Healy.
“He’s got four years left as a top-liner.”
McClure added: “He’s 29, he’s a young man.
“He’s been in and out of the team, we know for freshness reasons.
“It’s a taboo topic, clearly Sam Mitchell wants to play the kids. It seems that way, anyway. He’s been starting on the bench.
“Tom Mitchell is an A-grade midfielder, in my opinion. He’s a Brownlow Medallist and he’s still got a lot of good football to offer for a team that needs him.
“I think there are quite a few times in Melbourne that could use a gun inside mid that can give it to running players.”
Healy threw up a handful clubs in Victoria who could benefit from Mitchell’s services, if of course the Hawks are interested in parting ways.
Healy said: “Tigers?”
McClure replied: “Easily, he’s perfect for them.”
Healy: “Collingwood?”
McClure: “Perfect.”
Healy: “Bombers?”
McClure: “Yep.”
Healy: “Geelong?”
McClure: “Geelong, absolutely.
“Can’t you just see that?”
Healy: “I think that works for him because Richmond, Collingwood and Geelong are clearly in premiership windows.
“Essendon, from what has happened over the last 12 months, it would be a bit of a punt to suggest they’re in the premiership window. I’d say it’s a few years away.”
Mitchell’s trade value was also discussed, with McClure putting forward what he believes he is worth.
McClure said: “The question is going to be, what’s his worth?
“Sam Mitchell and the Hawks would want to get something good for him.
“He’s got a year left on his deal, I assume he’s on good money and quite rightly after winning a Brownlow.
“If they trade him at the end of this year and say to a club we’ll pay however much of his money for next year, you just give us a better deal.
“If he’s on $750-800, we’ll pay 250 of it. You get a gun midfielder for half a million.
“If I’m Hawthorn, I’d want pick 20 for him at a minimum. Pick 20 gives me a good player or the ability to package up and get further down the draft.
“It’s a win-win for all parties I reckon. Tom goes to a team that is very close to winning a flag and rolls the dice there.
“He’s great off the field, he’s a great leader, I think it’s a perfect move.”
Mitchell is averaging 27.8 disposals this season, his lowest average at the Hawks aside from the shortened 2020 season.
He has spent slightly less time at the coalface but still leads the club for clearances and contested possessions in 2022.