The Carlton Football Club embarked on the second stage of its journey under senior coach Brendon Bolton in 2017.
After registering six wins, the Blues finished the season in 16th place on the ladder.
Despite falling four points short of its 2016 output, Carlton won more quarters in 2017, demonstrating the growth of the playing group in its second year with Bolton at the helm.
With the team now on a break, we’re analysing each player’s year in statistics. Here’s the review for Carlton midfielder Nick Graham.
GAMES
Season 2017: 10
Career: 38
GOALS
Season 2017: 3
Career: 10
KEY AFL STATISTICS (averages in brackets)
Disposals: 187 (18.7) Tackles: 47 (4.7) Marks: 50 (5.0) Contested possessions: 72 (7.2) Clearances: 24 (2.4) Disposal efficiency: (70.6 per cent)
OVERVIEW
Graham was an honest performer but couldn't cement a spot in Carlton's midfield in his fifth season, playing two less games than he did last year.
With the arrival of a bevy of young midfielders, competition heated up for spots in the Blues' engine room, meaning Graham was often used as a high forward in his 10 senior matches.
The story was different in the VFL, however, with Graham a consistent and prolific on-baller in his six games for the Northern Blues.
McKay and Kerr have been very impressive today for @NBluesFC. But the credit has to go to Graham for this one. He is on fire today #PJVFL pic.twitter.com/XiKwYkj9JR
— 7VFL (@7VFL) April 22, 2017
He was "tremendous" for the Northern Blues according to coach Josh Fraser, and well and truly earned his four senior call-ups.
Currently out of contract, Graham faces a nervous wait to see if he'll line up for the Blues in 2018.
BEST PERFORMANCE
Graham was a solid performer in the Blues' win over Collingwood.
Playing as a half-forward, he recorded 19 disposals, five tackles and a goal, while also leading Carlton for marks (10) and marks inside 50 (three).