Brisbane defender Sam Mayes agrees to explore trade options and eyes possible SA return
BRISBANE Lions defender and first-round draft pick Sam Mayes has agreed to explore a trade next month, particularly if it means a South Australian homecoming.
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BRISBANE Lions defender and first-round draft pick Sam Mayes has agreed to explore a trade next month, particularly if it means a South Australian homecoming.
The 24-year-old brought up his 100-game milestone this season but did not play at AFL level after Round 14 and finished the year in the reserves in the NEAFL.
Mayes is contracted for next season but after his exit meeting with the Lions it’s understood he is open to seeking greater opportunities elsewhere and is keen to return to SA from where he was drafted with Pick 8 in 2012.
The former North Adelaide junior started his career as a forward after back-to-back All-Australian honours as an under-18, and kicked 23 goals in his first two seasons with the Lions.
In the past two years he has transitioned into a wingman/defender under new coach Chris Fagan and finished fifth in Brisbane’s best-and-fairest in 2017.
He played the first four games this season before being dropped in Round 5 and was not recalled until Round 12 when he played his 100th game.
Mayes signed a three-year deal in 2016 but the Lions are not expected to stand in his way if they can find a suitor in the trade period, which may see him move to Victoria.
Brisbane is set to be a major player in the off-season as it chases Fremantle ball magnet Lachie Neale and his good friend and fellow South Australian Lincoln McCarthy who is out of contract this season.
The AFL’s trade period opens on Monday, October 8.