General Manager of Football David Noble believes that the Brisbane Lions’ early draft picks will put the Club in a strong position to move forward strategically by filling long-term needs.

In its first transaction of the 2016 Trade Period, the Lions parted with picks 2, 31, 51 and 60 in exchange for picks 3 and 16 from GWS. Following the trade of Pearce Hanley to the Gold Coast, the Lions were also able to pick up pick 22 and a future first-round draft pick from Port Adelaide.

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Speaking to RadioTAB, Noble emphasised that the Club was taking a forward looking approach in its trade and draft strategy.

“Those picks that we got, 3,16, 21 and 22, you can look at the needs of the Club going forward."

“We don’t necessarily have to take the best talent.

“It gives us enormous flexibility to be able to look strategically at the draft, (and to pick the players that will) get us where the Club needs to be positioned in three years’ time.”

The Lions hold picks 3, 16, 21, 22, 76, 78 and 96 as they head into the AFL’s NAB National Draft, which is on Friday, November 25.

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