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Can the Mick Malthouse factor restore finals hope at Carlton? That is the big question in 2013.
The former Footscray and West Coast coach joins Carlton after a successful tenure with arch rivals Collingwood. Much has, and will be written, about the kind of influence he can have at Visy Park.
Malthouse’s hard-nosed approach could be of major benefit to a Carlton side which relies too heavily on star players such as Chris Judd, Marc Murphy, Heath Scotland and Andrew Carrazzo.
There will plenty of eyes on Bryce Gibbs who really needs to step up in 2013 after a mediocre season last year.
The forward line is a potential hazard with goal sneaks Eddie Betts and Jeff Garlett required to do too much.
Their success will rely on the fitness of Jarrad Waite and Andrew Walker who are both capable of kicking winning scores when up and running, however, there has been talk of Walker spending more time in defence.
The Blues’ big man stakes look decent with Shaun Hampson and Matthew Kreuzer leading the way from a ruck viewpoint but hopefully the promising Levi Casboult, particularly in the attacking 50, and the fit-again Robert Warnock can step up to provide assistance.
Warnock is believed to be flying on the training track and is expected to share the ruck duties with Hampson which will allow Kreuzer to spend more time up forward.
The defence looks balanced with the likes of Lachie Henderson, Michael Jamison, a fit Jeremy Laidler, the dash of Chris Yarran and quarter-back styling of Gibbs (who could even be shifted into a more advanced role) but as mentioned before, the handful of A-graders really need to fire for the Blues to be successful.
Making the finals is a prerequisite for Malthouse’s sides and the Blues should do enough to get there this season, however, there is a massive question mark on where consistent winning scores will come from
The boundary-hugging, long-kicking style of Malthouse is likely to be implemented, which has been proven as a success in the past.
A tough early draw which sees them take on Collingwood, Geelong, West Coast and Adelaide in their opening five matches may have them kick off the campaign behind the eight ball but they should have just enough quality, and the nous of the coach, to sneak into the eight.
Key players
Marc Murphy is a classy midfielder who should be fully fit after surgery on both his shoulder and his knee in the offseason.
Chris Judd is a superstar of the game. He was subpar in 2012 and is vital to Carlton’s hopes this year.
Heath Scotland is the reigning best and fairest winner and will need to be strong again in 2013.
Breakout potential
A midfielder who can push forward, Kane Lucas Is ready to star for the Blues after 18 senior games in the last two years.
A key defender filling out well, Matthew Watson is in his third year in the system after being pick 18 in the 2010 draft. He will be expected to assist Jamison and Henderson down back.
Sam Rowe arrived from Sydney but missed last year due to health issues. His rise is a great story. He beat testicular cancer and has shown impressive pre-season form.
Promising youngsters
Troy Menzel is a gifted midfielder/half forward recovered from LARS knee surgery and has talent to burn.
Levi Casboult is a 2010 rookie draft selection who has plenty of ability as a key marking target up forward. He could be crucial if he can straighten up his goalkicking.
Nick Graham will find it hard to break into the midfield this year but expect him to be given some opportunities. He can find plenty of the ball.
Key inclusions
Nil – Malthouse insisted he was happy with the list he inherited from Brett Ratten.
Notable departures
Jordan Russell – Collingwood
Bret Thornton – GWS
Predicted finish: eighth
Worth a punt
Marc Murphy – Brownlow Medal winner: $18
Troy Menzel – Rising Star winner: $23
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