What's in their favour? Hobbled, literally, by the absence of Ben Cousins and Chris Judd's wonky groin in 2007, the Eagles nevertheless soldiered on manfully, losing two finals by a virtual kick. The permanent loss of that pair may not wreak the devastation feared with very capable replacements in Matt Priddis and Matt Rosa. Injury-prone Andrew Embley and Ashley Hansen have had decent pre-seasons, young pair Chad Jones and Josh Kennedy are capable of stepping into key forward roles, and Sam Butler and youngster Jamie McNamara likewise in midfield.
What's not? Despite their depth, the Eagles' loss of Judd and Cousins reduces one of the all-time great midfields to simply handy. Throw in Daniel Chick and Rowan Jones, and four premiership players have gone in one hit. Chad Fletcher has gone from All-Australian status to struggler with remarkable speed and the West Coast forward line still doesn't make nearly enough of its opportunities, Quinten Lynch's vast improvement notwithstanding.
Stepping into the spotlight? Newcomer Kennedy has an opportunity to make a key forward post his own, as does Chad Jones, with youngster McNamara highly rated as a disciplined runner. But the biggest impact could be made by Mark LeCras, not only as a medium-sized forward who finished second in the Eagles' goalkicking in 2007, but midfield, where he was given the occasional run last season. Butler, too, is a classy midfielder kept gameless through injury last year, but ready now to become a key part of the engine room.
In their wildest dreams? The loss of Judd and Cousins doesn't prove the earth-shattering blow many fear with the continued maturity and consistency of the Matts Priddis and Rosa, and Dean Cox offering his usual outstanding service in the ruck. The Subiaco factor provides its usual edge and the Eagles reach top four and home finals.
The reality? Still a lot to like about the Eagles, but the travel factor will still take some toll on the less-seasoned members of the line-up with two former captains lost to the cause. Well-coached and with a fortress-like home, top four remains a realistic aspiration.
ROBERT WALLS 5th The Eagles will surprise. Sure, Chris Judd and Ben Cousins' on-field presence is gone, but there is heaps of young talent ready to emerge and without the distractions of the past 18 months it is likely we will see a new era begin.
ROHAN CONNOLLY 6th Forecasts of the Eagles demise post-Judd and Cousins are dangerous indeed. Theres much talent still in the midfield, plenty of emerging youth, and a rock-solid and rebounding defence, not to mention a formidable home ground edge. Respect.
