Bryce Gibbs – Deck of Dream Team 2013

Name: Bryce Gibbs
Club: Carlton
Position: Mid/Def
Assistant Coach 2013 Price: $473,300
Bye Round: 13
2012 Average: 92
2012 Games Played: 22
Predicted Average: 112

Why should I pick him?

When playing in the midfield, Bryce Gibbs has the potential to score at an elite standard. In 2011 when he finished the season in a mid/fwd role he absolutely dominated with a streak of 8 AFL Dream Team 100’s which included 123, 128 and 139 to go with 3 scores over 110. Last year he played a lot off half back, often going unnoticed and picking up less possessions and marks than we have become accustomed to. The positive from that is he averaged 15 point less per game meaning he is now at a bargain basement for someone of his ability.

Due to his role last year Bryce has regained DPP status which provides flexibility and the opportunity to select one of the games potential elite mids in the backline.

Towards the end of 2012 when we were questioning if Gibbs would ever reach the heights we expect of him, he bounced back to remind us of what he can do with 4/5 100 point games to finish with 118, 122, 125 and 141 showing he also knows how to go on with the job.

With new coach Mick Malthouse having a good history of developing young midfield stars and the fact he has hinted that Bryce is set for a greater midfield role, he seems destined for a personal best season. The Pie midfield under Malthouse was also renowned for pumping out huge scores which is a big positive.

Since entering the league, Bryce has missed just 1 regular season game in 6 seasons so he is extremely durable. This is probably a reflection of his outstanding ability to gain uncontested possessions and marks which is a positive for our DTers (risk free and high scoring).

Despite his outstanding ability, Gibbs is third in line from an opposition defensive mindset. When teams look to shut down the Blues midfield, Chris Judd and Mark Murphy are always first on the hit list which should allow Gibbs to flourish.

Why shouldn’t I pick him?

The only reason not to pick Gibbs this year is to be unique. Personally I am not a fan of this tactic, but there are always a few out there that don’t select a player in the hope that they fail, giving them an advantage over the masses. Heads up: don’t do it with Bryce Gibbs.

There is actually no reason you shouldn’t pick him

Deck of DT Rating.

King – If Gibbs was named just as a mid, I would seriously be considering him at this price. The fact he can be selected as a defender makes it an absolute no brainer and he should be everybody’s first picked. The new coach is a cherry on top as he has ticked all other boxes. Look for Gibbs to take his personal best average of 107 for the season up to 110+.

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