Merrett joins Hawthorn after seven Crichton Medals
Zach Merrett, the 31-year-old seven-time Essendon best-and-fairest, has switched to Hawthorn for picks 15, 25 and a future second-rounder.
Zach Merrett is now a Hawk. The trade happened on day one of the October trade period, a sharp contrast to last year's failed pursuit that dragged on for months.
Merrett, who just won a record-equalling seventh Crichton Medal, signed a four-year deal worth $1 million a year. Hawthorn gave up picks 15 and 25 in this year's draft plus a future second-round selection.
The swift move signals the Hawks are confident they can pursue Gold Coast restricted free agent Ben King without spending extra draft capital on a trade. Hawthorn are confident the Suns will not match their offer for King and instead accept a first-round pick as compensation.
- 31 years old
- Merrett's age
- Seven times
- Crichton Medals
- $1 million
- Annual salary
- One
- Schubert games played
Why it mattersSecuring a seven-time best-and-fairest mid-season boosts Hawthorn's premiership chances immediately and shapes the club's draft strategy for months ahead.
AustraliaHawks fans gain a veteran midfielder in his prime. Essendon loses one of its most decorated players, signalling a likely rebuild.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
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