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Hawthorn's $1M Question: Who Misses Out on Forward Line?
24 Jul
Summary
- Hawthorn faces a forward line selection challenge with four key forwards.
- Ben King is reportedly a target, but the line is already crowded.
- A decision on who plays is called the 'million-dollar question'.
As Hawthorn looks towards premiership contention in 2026, the club is also strategizing for the offseason. Gold Coast Suns forward Ben King is reportedly a key target for the Hawks. This potential acquisition, however, presents a complex challenge for coach Sam Mitchell's forward line strategy.
Mitch Lewis has recently signed a four-year deal, and Jack Gunston has extended his contract through 2027. With these players in place, and the potential addition of King, the forward line becomes notably crowded. This situation forces a difficult decision regarding player selection, as fitting four key forwards into the lineup is not considered sustainable.
Former Hawthorn player Ben Dixon highlighted the dilemma, questioning how the team could accommodate all four forwards. He noted that Ben King, while a strong inside-50 presence, has yet to prove his ability to contribute as a connecting forward between the arcs, a role similar to Jack Gunston's. The club must now determine the optimal combination, with a significant question mark over who will make way if King is indeed signed.
