The staggering trade price tag for Harley Reid that would challenge any Victorian club if he made a shock decision

If Harley Reid seeks to switch from the West Coast Eagles to a Victorian club during the off-season, could this be the most valuable trade in AFL history?

No player has been traded for three first-round picks without something being sent back the other way – could Reid break that record? Is it possible he could command two top 10 selections as part of the deal?

This scenario seems more likely now that clubs can trade draft choices up to two years in advance for the first time.

With discussions around Reid’s future, the Dan Houston trade, and the situations involving Willie Rioli and Brad Green, Nine’s chief AFL reporter Tom Morris has addressed your queries in anticipation of Round 9.

What transpired between Dan Houston and Melbourne last trade period… he seemed like a perfect fit for them? – via Sam on Facebook

TM: He would have made a fantastic addition. Melbourne was going through a challenging phase with Christian Petracca, Clayton Oliver, and leadership turmoil surrounding the former president, creating a climate of uncertainty.

Houston initially expressed interest, and Melbourne was prepared to surrender two first-round picks. The deal was nearly completed.

However, Houston reconsidered once he grasped the instability at the club, likely having a front-row view through the lens of his management, which is aligned with that of Clayton Oliver and Christian Petracca at Connor Sports Management.

Is there any chatter about Leek Aleer possibly joining the Swans? – via Tim on Facebook

TM: I haven’t heard anything concrete regarding Sydney, but a move doesn’t surprise me. Given Sydney’s aggressive history and Aleer’s struggle to secure a permanent position in the GWS lineup, it wouldn’t be an unlikely development.

Sydney remains in a phase of assessment as they try to determine their status. They’ve retained Chad Warner and signed Logan McDonald, yet there are still areas that require attention.

Is Carlton pursuing players in this trade window? – via Adam on Facebook

TM: I’m certain they are on the lookout. They attempted to acquire Will Hayward last year, targeting a player to fill a clear gap in their line-up.

However, I doubt they can chase any of the big names currently. The primary focus lies in securing Tom De Koning and extending contracts for Sam Walsh.

I don’t foresee Carlton being in the running for a star player like Petracca, who was mentioned in discussions last year.

Why isn’t the AFL or Port Adelaide being pressed to impose a penalty on Willie Rioli? This is a poor image for young fans! – via Brett on Facebook

TM: As of 2.15pm on Wednesday, there are various stakeholders urging the AFL to sanction Willie Rioli. I believe he will face some sort of suspension, though the specifics remain unclear.

While Port Adelaide stands behind Rioli, this is fundamentally an AFL matter, and they should have acted with greater urgency by Monday.

Are there regulations governing LED advertising at matches? The brightness, colour, and movement seem distracting and likely affecting players? – via Phillip on Facebook

TM: I haven’t heard of it impacting players, but I’ve posed that question before.

I share your view; as a spectator, I find it distracting. However, sponsorship money is a priority, and if sponsors want their products showcased with bright lights, the AFL seems willing to deal with any resulting frustrations from fans given the financial stakes involved.

But Phillip, I agree with your sentiments.

Do you anticipate Essendon to make a move for Harley Reid? – via Allan on Facebook

TM: Absolutely. Essendon, along with several other clubs, will likely make a substantial offer if they learn Harley Reid is considering them.

Nonetheless, I believe Essendon currently ranks below some clubs, such as Hawthorn and Geelong. That said, the Bombers could rise in the ranks, given their strong draft position, available salary cap, and historical status as a major club.

While I’m not dismissing their chances, it seems less probable.

What kind of trade value do you expect for Harley Reid if he asks for a transfer? – via WWOS team

TM: His worth will depend on the location of the first-round picks involved. I’d suggest a minimum of two top 10 selections, along with another in the teens as potential trade value.

His contract gives him added value, unlike uncontracted players, but that also means waiting another year, during which he could potentially shine.

This is my view: I’d be reluctant to hand over three first-round picks for anyone. My perspective is that he’s worth a selection between five and 10, one between 10 and 15, and another between 20 and 25 if we’re being precise.

Have the Bulldogs landed themselves in a similar situation to Port Adelaide’s with Ken Hinkley? – via WWOS team

TM: Potentially, but I appreciate clubs in limbo as their immediate goals sharpen significantly.

I like the direction the Dogs are taking. If another club were attempting to lure Luke Beveridge away, it would be a whole different situation, but as he has confirmed he’s staying put, there’s no urgency for the Dogs.

When there’s no rush for the Dogs and their coach, it allows things to unfold naturally. It’s a unique scenario, and I find it quite appealing under these conditions.

What are your thoughts on Brad Green’s reaction to Clayton Oliver being questioned as he entered training on Tuesday? – via WWOS team

TM: When Harry McKay was absent due to personal issues, the club stated it was indefinite and requested respect for his privacy, which the public adhered to as he wasn’t expected to play anytime soon, despite being active in the VFL.

Then, when Melbourne announced Clayton Oliver was taking a week off, the captain went on radio expressing a desire to have him back for the upcoming match against Hawthorn. Asking Oliver as he walked into training whether he would play this week isn’t an invasion of privacy; it’s an entirely reasonable question given the context.

AFL players deserve privacy regarding their home life and social interactions, but they are entering a public workplace funded largely by broadcast rights.

If a journalist had approached Clayton Oliver on Chappell Street and aggressively pushed for answers, I would agree that it was excessive. However, simply asking if he is playing is a standard question when a player arrives at training. He is widely expected to participate this week.

Would Oscar Allen be a Lion in a few weeks if there were a mid-season trade period? – via WWOS team

TM: While the details surrounding free agents are complex, I maintain that Oscar Allen seems determined to play for Brisbane next year. The sooner he can make the switch, the better for all parties involved.

From West Coast’s perspective, an injury could complicate his value for compensation, making the next few months quite tricky.

I still envision him at the Lions next year, barring any unforeseen developments.