Franklin is the second most expensive forward in Dream Team (second only to Collingwood’s Dayne Beams), and his average of 105.43 rubs salt into the wounds.
The Hawks spearhead has missed two matches since injuring his hamstring against Greater Western Sydney in Round 16, and will miss a third match tonight against the Bombers.
The good news is though, that the Hawks have Franklin listed as being only one week away on the injury list, and General Manager - Football Operations, Mark Evans says the Hawks’ full forward will “hopefully be available for next weekend.”
If you’ve resisted the temptation to trade Franklin, then don’t waiver now. He could be back in no time delivering you scores of 122, 115 and more before you know it.
If you need any more convincing, his average in his last five matches is a massive 122.4, while his average in his last three games is 103.
He, of course holds the record for Dream Team points, with a massive 204 points scored against the Kangaroos when he booted a lazy 13 goals in the Hawks’ win.
If you don’t have Franklin (why wouldn’t you?), you’d be wise to bring the spearhead in, after he dropped $20,100 after he was subbed out of the win over the Giants with the hamstring injury. His price, $511,500 would be money well spent.
Round 18 spotlight
Cyril Rioli ($438,300) - The Hawks dynamo plays his 100th game for the Hawks tonight against the Bombers, and will no doubt be keen to make it a memorable one. He has gone about his Dream Team business rather quietly this season, improving his average each week. We think he’s building towards a big score, grab him while you can.Luke Breust ($358,800) - It seems as if since Breust recorded a career-high 24 possessions against Fremantle earlier this year, the former “super sub” has gone from strength to strength. He booted five goals against the Magpies last week to notch 97 Dream Team points. Could be a unique choice to give you team a lift.
Jack Gunston ($287,300) - Gunston is loving life as one of the Hawks’ focal points up forward having kicked seven goals in his last two matches. He’s athletic, good on the ground and can take a mark, plus - he never misses in front of goal. Another score of 89 against the Pies makes him a good cheap option for the forward line.
Top 5 Hawks in Round 17
1. Sam Mitchell ($488,700) - 102
2. Brad Sewell ($397,700) - 101
3. Jordan Lewis ($418,500) - 101
4. Luke Breust ($358,800) - 97
5. Cyril Rioli ($438,300) - 89
Top 5 Hawks in 2012
1. Sam Mitchell ($488,700)
2. Lance Franklin ($511,500)
3. Jarryd Roughead ($456,400)
4. Matt Suckling ($368,900)
5. Brendan Whitecross ($418,00)
