Magpies star makes trade call as Lions land Draper
Joanna Guelas |
Premiership forward Brody Mihocek has turned down offers to stay at Collingwood and will join Melbourne as an unrestricted free agent.
Mihocek leaves the Magpies after eight seasons, while Brisbane has officially landed Essendon’s star ruck Sam Draper.
A five-time leading goalkicker at the Magpies, Mihocek will bring valuable experience to a rebuilding Demons outfit led by new coach Stephen King.
Melbourne star Christian Petracca has already requested a trade to Gold Coast, while Clayton Oliver was spotted on a boat in Sydney Harbour with GWS coach Adam Kingsley and football boss Jason McCartney.
Mihocek played 159 games across eight seasons in the black and white and kicked 47 goals as a key member of Collingwood’s 2023 premiership.
The 32-year-old boasts a total of 267 career goals since making his debut for the Magpies in 2018.
“Brody has played a key role within our football program over the past eight years, and we thank him for his contribution to the black and white,” Magpies list manager Justin Leppitsch said in a club statement.
“We respect Brody’s decision to pursue his free agency rights and explore opportunities at Melbourne.
“We wish him, his partner Polly and their son Arthur all the best for this next chapter.
“As a 2023 Premiership player, Brody will always be a Collingwood person.”
Mihocek leaves Collingwood after teammate Jamie Elliott turned down interest from Gold Coast to re-sign for a further two years.
Meanwhile, back-to-back premiers Brisbane will give up draft pick No.20 to Essendon after signing ruck Sam Draper.
Draper played 78 games after spending nine years on Essendon’s list.
The 27-year-old cited a troubled injury stretch at the Bombers as among his reasons for leaving the club.
AAP
