16. PORT ADELAIDE

We can only hope that Port gets off to a great start under new coach Hinkley. Men like Cornes, Ebert and Broadbent shoulder an enormous burden as they attempt to restore some confidence to a proud club. The retention of Boak is a positive. The club needed contract speculation like the proverbial cranial cavity.

17. GOLD COAST

We can only hope Ablett’s support cast will shine more brightly in 2013. While Ablett’s move to Gold Coast has done his legend no harm, premierships are now a distant memory for him and an unattainable prospect. Still, he and coach McKenna are doing a great job, and it’s heartening to see the commitment of men like Hunt, Bennell and Stanley. No trophies in sight, but they will look back on this era with pride.

Gary Ablett will sine but will his Suns play support cast? Image: Getty Images Gary Ablett will sine but will his Suns play support cast? Image: Getty Images

18. GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY

They should spoon, but have a lot to anticipate. They bowed to no one in their debut season, playing Sheedy-brand attacking football. They will be an asset to the competition – a team to watch