Get ready for some AFLW drama! The reigning champions, North Melbourne, are determined to add former top draft pick Kristie-Lee Weston-Turner to their squad, but it's not going to be an easy ride. Despite their best efforts, the Kangaroos couldn't secure a trade with the Western Bulldogs, leaving Weston-Turner's future up in the air.
With an impressive 27-game winning streak and two consecutive unbeaten seasons under their belt, North Melbourne were confident they could convince the young forward to join their ranks. But the Bulldogs stood firm, and now Weston-Turner is set to enter the draft on Monday night, hoping to land at Arden Street.
Here's where it gets controversial: North Melbourne's first pick is currently at 37, which could be pushed back even further depending on other bids. This means Weston-Turner might have to wait and see if other clubs snap her up before she gets her chance with the Kangaroos.
And this is the part most people miss: Weston-Turner is a hot commodity, and other clubs are sure to show intense interest. Brisbane and Hawthorn have already expressed their desire to sign her, but North Melbourne remains her top choice.
"We're confident that we'll walk out of the draft with Weston-Turner as a North Melbourne player," says Flynn Loft, the Kangaroos' list manager. "We understand it's an emotional time for her, but we're doing our best to keep the energy high.
Weston-Turner, a 20-year-old who grew up supporting the Bulldogs, only managed one senior game this season, with a total of eight AFLW appearances. But her talent is undeniable, having been taken with the number one pick in the 2023 draft after a stellar under-18s campaign.
The Bulldogs offered a two-year deal to keep her at the Whitten Oval, but Weston-Turner is determined to join North. "It's a real shame for Westo," says AFLW list manager Dan Fisher. "We tried to do a deal, but North Melbourne's offer just wasn't something we could accept.
Despite losing Weston-Turner, the Bulldogs managed to secure midfielder Mikala Cann, who brings experience with 76 games for Collingwood. Meanwhile, dual Brisbane Lions premiership forward Taylor Smith made her way to Sydney, becoming the first player traded on deadline day.
So, what do you think? Is North Melbourne's confidence in landing Weston-Turner justified, or are they setting themselves up for disappointment? Let's discuss in the comments and explore the possibilities of this intriguing AFLW transfer saga!
