With the team now on a break, we’re taking a look back at each player’s year in statistics. Here's the review for Carlton young gun Nick Graham:
GAMES
Season 2015: 6
Career: 16
GOALS
Season 2015: 3
Career: 5
KEY AFL STATISTICS (averages in brackets)
Disposals: 104 (17.33) Contested Possessions: 49 (8.17) Uncontested Possessions: 55 (9.17) Tackles: 29 (4.83)
OVERVIEW
In 2015 Nick Graham grabbed his opportunities with both hands. After starring for the Northern Blues in the early part of the year, his impressive form earned him a call up to the senior side.
In the Round 12 victory against Port Adelaide, Graham had 18 disposals, seven tackles, five inside 50s and kicked two goals.
Although he only played six senior games, Graham is ranked second at the Blues for inside 50s per game, averaging 3.67 behind Tom Bell (4.55) and Marc Murphy (4.00).
Unfortunately a foot injury cut his season short in Round 14 against the Bulldogs, with the 21-year-old unable to get back on the park.
VIDEO: Graham discusses his foot injury
In the five games Graham played for the Northern Blues, he was named among their best on ground. So it’s no wonder the young gun polled 56 votes out of a possible 75, to finish second behind Brad Walsh in the Northern Blues' best and fairest.
There’s no doubt Blues fans will be looking forward to seeing this young Blue back in action in 2016.
Nick Graham played a crucial role in the Blues' thrilling victory over Port Adelaide. (Photo: AFL Photos)
HE SAID IT
“The coaches have put a lot of faith in my game and given me a few games on the trot now, and I think my biggest improvement is going to come with more games under my belt. If I just keep that kind of intensity up, and that attitude to want to get better, then hopefully I can cement a spot going into the next half of the year.”
- Nick Graham, speaking ahead of the Round 14 clash with the Bulldogs.
THEY SAID IT
"Nick Graham pushed his case for a long run in Carlton’s senior side with his third-straight best on ground performance for Northern Blues on Saturday against Essendon. The midfielder has been named the Blues’ best against Sandringham, North Ballarat and the Bombers in his last three VFL games, averaging 21 disposals.”
- Leader journalist Tim Michell praises Graham’s form after consecutive standout performances for the Northern Blues.
SEASON HIGHLIGHT
In Round 12 Graham was awarded Carlton’s tackle of the week. After dodging a number of opponents, Port Adelaide’s Ollie Wines didn’t see Graham coming, with the No. 32 dragging Wines off his kick in the centre square.
