However, I think he raised a point worth of discussion. Is the AFL draft system flawed? The current structure certainly encourages teams that are not likely to make the finals to drop a few games in order to speed up the rebuilding process. Whether teams action on this or not is debateable, I don't think any professional sportsperson enjoys losing, even if it is for ‘the greater good'.
Aka suggested a review of the AFL's draft process and the possible introduction of a draft lottery (think NBA) to curb the issue of tanking, if in fact it exists. I can see the positives and negatives of each system.
Currently there is a window of opportunity of a club to win a premiership before their lists age and the need to wait until the secure more young talent (finish low on the ladder) to rebuild and start their climb to the top again. Sometimes the fall is substantial, sometimes not.
The lottery would ultimately break this cycle as even the top team for the year would have a chance of securing an early draft pick. The lottery order would essentially be chosen by final placement on the ladder, but that's no guarantee on what pick a club gets.
I know which system I would prefer, and it's seen on TV a few nights a week.
I expect discussion...
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