THE Carlton Football Club has acquired the prized third overall pick in this year’s draft, courtesy of a three-way trade on Day 7 of the 2024 Continental Tyres Trade Period. 

The deal, struck with West Coast and Richmond, sees the Blues catapult nine spots up in the first round of a highly regarded draft, while also acquiring additional later selections, boosting its access to draft points. 

Carlton has received picks Nos.3, 63 and 68, in exchange for sending pick No. 14 to the Tigers, with West Coast acquiring Liam Baker, Matt Owies as part of the deal, along with picks Nos.12 and 73. 

We were really transparent coming into this period that we wanted to attack the top end of this draft. To be able to turn picks 12 and 14 into a top-three pick overall is an outstanding result for us.

- Nick Austin

Owies departs IKON Park following six seasons with the Blues after being selected as a Category B rookie in 2018, playing 72 games since his debut in 2020.  

Carlton Head of List Management Nick Austin said today’s trade saw the Club achieve its number one priority of accessing the elite-level talent at the top end of this draft pool, while also boosting its draft points.  

“Today’s trade means our club will access the top-end talent in the country in a really strong draft pool,” Austin said. 

“We were really transparent coming into this period that we wanted to attack the top end of this draft. To be able to turn picks 12 and 14 into a top-three pick overall is an outstanding result for us.

Matthew Owies departs after six seasons at IKON Park.

“In addition to this, we’ve also been able to acquire additional draft points courtesy of our bundle of later picks. This places us in a strong position heading into the next month, knowing we have been able to execute the strategy we set out to achieve to this point.

“We are looking to balance our strong core of senior players with a quality group of emerging talent coming through – by doing this we will have our list well-placed to not just contend in the short term, but for an extended period.

“It is always difficult farewelling players, however it is a reality at this time of year. Matt has been a great football story from where he has come from, and we want to thank him for his contribution to the Club. He has brought energy and positivity to our forward line over six years, and we wish him all the best over in the west. 

“With over a month remaining ahead of the draft, we will continue to remain flexible and be open to further opportunities as they present.”

Carlton currently holds picks Nos.3, 63, 68, 69 and 72 in the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft.