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 forward Jed Lamb. 

GAMES

Season 2017: 11

Career: 48

GOALS

Season 2017: 6

Career: 36

KEY AFL STATISTICS (averages in brackets)

Disposals: 141 (12.8) Inside 50s: 38 (3.4) Tackles: 28 (2.6) Score involvements: 47 (4.3) Metres gained: 2,885 (262.3) Tackles inside 50: 14 (1.3) Marks inside 50: 13 (1.2)

OVERVIEW

A knee injury delayed Lamb’s start to the season, with the former Swan and Giant’s first competitive hitout coming in Round 6 of the VFL.

After four weeks for the Northern Blues, Lamb was recalled for the clash with Greater Western Sydney, cementing a spot in Carlton’s forward line for the remainder of the season.

While he didn’t have a big impact on the scoreboard (six goals from 11 matches), Lamb ranked 15th in the competition for goal assists per game.

There was a greater focus on his defensive game in 2017, with coach Brendon Bolton assigning the 24-year-old negating roles on the likes of Jason Johannisen, Brendon Goddard and James Sicily. 

BEST PERFORMANCE

Lamb’s role on Sicily in Round 22 proved match-defining.

The forward-turned-defender had been running hot for the Hawks, and was one of the reasons for his side’s form reversal.

He hit a roadblock in the form of Lamb, however, who got under the talented youngster’s skin to earn six frees – one that resulted in a goal at the start of the second half.

Lamb played his role to perfection to finish with 15 disposals, seven marks, four tackles and two majors.

SEASON HIGHLIGHT

Lamb created something out of nothing in Carlton’s fightback against Essendon in Round 20.

With his back turned to goal, Lamb fended off Bombers defender Martin Gleeson before wheeling onto his opposite foot and snapping truly from 30m out.