Nick Naitanui – 2008 AFL Draftee Profile

Rarely has a player divided opinions so much as the athletic prodigy from Western Australia, Nicholas Naitanui. Rated anywhere from clearly the best player in the draft, to a huge risk who might not make the next step, Naitanui is the big question mark in everyone’s phantom draft order.

Need proof of how highly Naitanui is rated in AFL circles? Carlton have stated that if Naitanui was eligible for last year’s draft, they would have taken him instead of Matthew Kreuzer. Big call indeed.

Height: 197cm
Weight: 95kgs
Position: Predominantly Ruck
Team: Swan Districts, WA

Who we think he may turn out like: The big, scary, footballing tarantula I saw last night in my dreams.
Who we hope he won’t turn out like: Jason Laycock with a Jimmy Manson-like kick.

Naitanui is athlete first, footballer second. A spring-heeled ruckman who moves just as well as a smaller midfielder, there is no doubting his athletic ability. What has come under fire though is his disposal – especially his kicking, which will need continual improvement to ensure he leaves a stamp on the game. His kicking for goal is apparently quite competent, however his field kicking needs work.

Naitanui’s feel and knowledge of the game has also come under fire, as being a relative newcomer to the game, he at times is found lacking with regard to some of the smaller nuances of ruckwork and reading the play. In his favour however is an apparent hunger to learn, and willingness to apply himself to the game’s one per centers such as tackling and shepherding.

Whilst primarily seen as a ruck prospect, his freakish speed and agility mean many believe he could play both through the midfield and up forward, making him an incredibly versatile prospect for whoever picks him up.

12 months ago, Naitanui was rated no. 1 in the nation – so it seems a little strange to think that Melbourne appear likely to pass him up to take Watts instead. That leaves the option to West Coast at pick no. 2, who have a tough decision whether to take Naitanui or the ready made midfielder Daniel Rich. A very tough decision indeed – Naitanui has the potential to give those who pass on him nightmares for the rest of his career, yet might not translate to the top level and be an unfortunate bust.

Share us your thoughts on Nick Naitanui – would you take him? Is he really a risk or simply a no-brainer? Leave us a comment below!