The Brisbane Lions are preparing for a new chapter as they meet to discuss strategies for defending their premiership title without star forward Joe Daniher. Daniher’s recent retirement followed a triumphant grand final win over Sydney, where he significantly contributed by scoring two goals. With an impressive tally of 58 goals in the 2024 season, Daniher ranked among the top scorers in the AFL, making his absence a considerable challenge for the team.
In light of Daniher’s unexpected retirement, which he confirmed shortly after the grand final, the Lions have spent the past month celebrating their victory while processing this major change. With Daniher’s contract still active and valued at around $900,000, the club faces the task of reshaping its forward line. The upcoming meeting is the first opportunity for the team to seriously consider how to fill the gap left by such a talented player.
Finding a direct replacement for Daniher is a daunting task, especially given his unique skill set. Notably, the Lions opted not to acquire a key forward during the recent trade period. Instead, they may look towards potential free agents like Sam Day, who was recently delisted by the Gold Coast Suns. Day’s experience as a versatile player could make him an appealing option for the Lions as they seek to bolster their attacking options.
Sam Day, a seasoned forward and second ruckman, brings considerable experience, having played 155 games for the Suns over 14 seasons and scoring 117 goals. Though he only appeared in five matches this past season, his ability to excel in contested situations, particularly within the forward 50, could benefit the Lions as they navigate their new dynamics. Alternatively, the success of Darcy Fort in the grand final raises the possibility