Pies and Lions Finalize Trade on Trade Period’s Penultimate Day
In a flurry of activity on the penultimate day of the 2025 Continental Tyres AFL Trade Period, Collingwood and Brisbane have completed a trade involving several draft picks. The deal sees both clubs adjusting their positions in the upcoming drafts, with an eye toward future talent acquisition.
The Brisbane Lions have agreed to send their 2025 Round Three Pick 45 and 2025 Round Three Pick 56 to Collingwood. In exchange, the Magpies will hand over their 2025 Round Three Pick 59 and a 2026 Round Three selection tied to Melbourne.
This trade reflects the strategic maneuvering common during the trade period, as teams seek to optimize their draft hand and address specific needs. For Collingwood, acquiring higher picks in the 2025 draft could provide an opportunity to secure targeted talent, potentially accelerating their rebuild or reinforcing key positions. The Magpies’ list management team, led by their recruiting manager, will be keen to identify players who can make an immediate impact.
Brisbane, on the other hand, appears to be taking a longer-term view by adding a future draft selection. The Lions may be aiming to consolidate their draft position in 2026, allowing them to make a significant play for emerging talent in that year’s draft. This move could also provide the Lions with greater flexibility in future trades, as they accumulate assets for potential player acquisitions.
The trade underscores the importance of draft picks as currency in the AFL landscape. With the draft system designed to promote equal opportunity and competitive balance, clubs often place a premium on securing valuable selections. The ability to identify and develop young talent through the draft is a critical component of sustained success in the league.
As the trade period nears its conclusion, clubs across the AFL are working diligently to finalize their lists for the upcoming season. This trade between Collingwood and Brisbane is just one example of the strategic decisions being made as teams position themselves for future success. With the clock ticking, fans can expect further activity as clubs look to complete their final deals.
