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Carlton are back in the AFL finals hunt after six seasons in the doldrums. West Coast are struggling after six seasons in the finals. Chris Judd’s move to Princes Park – after six seasons with the Eagles – has clearly had a dramatic effect on both clubs.
While it is too simplistic to say that any one player can swing a team’s fortunes so much, Judd’s switch is an enormous factor.
The Blues skipper’s influence on his former and current club clearly extends beyond his own personal output on the playing field.
The boost in morale and relief of pressure from Carlton players around him since he donned a navy blue jumper has been clearly apparent.
The likes of Nick Stevens, Marc Murphy and Bryce Gibbs have been major beneficiaries.
Conversely, West Coast premiership players such as Daniel Kerr, Chad Fletcher and Andrew Embley have found AFL life much tougher without the support of Judd, along with fellow former Eagle Ben Cousins.
Carlton coach Brett Ratten says Judd has defied history in his ability to have such a big impact so quickly.
“It’s not an easy thing to change clubs and come in and have a massive effect,” Ratten said.
“I think history sort of shows when you cross to another club it takes you half a season to settle in.
“I’ve seen it with Greg Williams (from Sydney to Carlton), other players in the AFL, it usually takes them 10 to 12 games to get to feel the players and how the club works and the style of play and just that camaraderie on the field.
“So he’s sort of come in with a bit of a bang, I suppose, and really imprinted his style and what he represents in footy, I think he’s done a fantastic job.”
While Judd is the standout inter-club recruit of the year, several other AFL teams have also reaped a benefit this season from player trades.
Western Bulldogs – Ben Hudson and Scott Welsh (both from Adelaide)
The Bulldogs did stunningly well to snare both former Crows. The benefit from Hudson extends beyond the enormous boost he provides in the ruck. His ability to use his bulk at ground level to extract the ball from packs or clear a path for his teammates has also been exactly what the `Dogs needed. Welsh has also been a very handy recruit, adding valuable depth and marking ability in attack.
Richmond – Mitch Morton (from West Coast) and Jordan McMahon (from Western Bulldogs)
After managing just 12 games, for 11 goals, in three seasons with the Eagles, 21-year-old Morton has blossomed at Tigerland. He has 27 goals from 12 games with the Tigers, including 18 in the past six rounds, with his combination of marking ability and ground level tenacity providing a useful blend. McMahon’s pace and skill out of defence have fitted in well with the fast-paced running game being developed by Richmond.
St Kilda – Steven King (from Geelong)
Cast adrift by the Cats after playing in last year’s premiership, the former Geelong skipper and All-Australian has been welcomed by the Saints, where he has become their No.1 ruckman. His ability and experience at ball-ups has been a boost to the Saints’ midfield brigade and has also freed up ruckman-forward Justin Koschitzke to play more often in attack.
Sydney – Martin Mattner (from Adelaide) and Henry Playfair (from Geelong)
Mattner has slotted beautifully into the Swans’ style, with his run and long kicking from half-back boosting the rebound provided by Tadhg Kennelly and Nick Malceski. Playfair, who struggled for a game with the Cats, has also played a useful role as a forward target, particularly during Barry Hall’s long suspension.
Collingwood – Cameron Wood (from Brisbane)
With a lack of quality back-up for No.1 ruckman Josh Fraser seen as one of the Magpies’ biggest weaknesses last season, the 21-year-old has bolstered that area. With Fraser missing through injury since round 12, Wood’s marking ability and ruck work have become even more important.
Brisbane – Travis Johnstone (from Melbourne)
Johnstone’s silky kicking skills have added to the class of the Brisbane midfield, and alongside the likes of Simon Black and Luke Power, provided tall forward targets Jonathan Brown and Daniel Bradshaw with some wonderful service.
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