Hamish McIntosh – Deck of Dream Team 2013

McIntosh plays the modern day ruckman role very well. He can dominate the hitouts, he is skillful around the ground for a big bloke and he can definitely take a contested grab when resting up forward, I’d say this is why Geelong recruited him. At the Cats, McIntosh will be the No. 1 ruckman spending most of his time on the ball rather than up forward. More importantly, Goldstein is not there to take any of his precious midfield time and don’t worry, he is far better on the ball than Trent West or any other Geelong ruckman.

McIntosh’s glory days were in 2009 where he averaged in the 90’s and proved himself as a very worthy ruckman choice. In 2012, Hmac looked to be back to his best form before knee injuries ruined his season. At 28 years old, Hmac is in the prime of his career. If fit, I think it is a given that he will continue to score well playing at Geelong given their attacking style of play and the numerous blokes that will be able to hit him lace out when he is free.

Why shouldn’t I pick him?

It’s no secret that Hmac has had more than his fair share of injuries over his career. So ask yourself, will McIntosh play the majority games in 2013? Maybe? Probably not? So why pick him? After LARS surgery in August, Mcintosh’s pre season to date has been limited with no contact work but he is expected to partake in full training in the New Year. Time will tell if he will be a little underdone come Round 1. Even if he is fit, I don’t see a lot of value in Mcintosh early as he’ll need to find his feet in the first few games and understand his role in the side.

With many premium ruckman having DPP eligibility and Leuenberger the obvious second choice ruckman, I can’t see where Hmac would fit especially given his hefty price tag. I’d say that the most popular ruck set up this season will be PREMO (DPP), LEUENBERGER, ROOKIE, and ROOKIE. If you want McIntosh in your rucks, you would need to either play him as your premo with MCINTOSH, LEUENBERGER, ROOKIE, ROOKIE or spend big and play PREMO, MCINTOSH, LEUENBERGER, ROOKIE but lets face it, they’re both not sensible options.

Deck of DT Rating.

JACK — McIntosh is a risk that could come off given that he wont be a popular selection among many coaches. Those at Geelong obviously believe he can get back to his best and if you think he can stay fit then he is definitely worth a punt. However, I feel there are better ruck options to start the year with but if Hmac plays well and proves his worth then keep your eye on him as a mid-season upgrade target.

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