In striking contrast to last year's protracted and ultimately failed move, Zach Merrett became a Hawthorn player on the opening day of the trade period. The 31-year-old midfielder, who just won a record-equalling seventh Crichton Medal as Essendon's best and fairest, will move to the Hawks in exchange for picks 15 and 25 in this year's draft and a future second-round pick. He has signed a four-year deal worth $1 million a year.
Hawthorn's best offer for Merrett last year was three first-round draft picks – selections 10 and 22 in the 2025 draft, their first-round pick in this year's 2026 national draft and fringe midfielder Henry Hustwaite, who was delisted by the club last week.
The swift move to secure Merrett this year suggests Hawthorn are confident they will not need to use their remaining draft capital to form part of a trade for restricted free agent Ben King from Gold Coast. The Hawks believe the Suns will not match their offer for King and instead accept a first-round draft pick – currently selection seven – as compensation.
Meanwhile, young Hawthorn forward Aidan Schubert will travel to the Gold Coast on Tuesday to tour the Suns' facilities and consider a move after just one year at the Hawks. His parents will join him from their family home in Gawler, South Australia.