Trade deals: Ellis a Sun, compo pick inHerald Sun
5 Oct 2019The AFL free agency period is officially open, with the trade window to kick off on Monday.
But the first deal of the 2019 exchange period has been completed, with Richmond’s restricted free agent Brandon Ellis officially joining the Gold Coast Suns.
But the big surprise is the compensation pick Richmond will receive, with the AFL ruling the AFL premier will receive an end-of-second round pick - currently selection 39.
As expected, the Tigers did not match the Suns’ lucrative, multi-year deal, meaning Ellis is now a Sun.
Many believed, based on recent history, that the Tigers would earn an end-of-first round pick.
“I’m very excited to be on board. I’ve been impressed by the club and its people, there’s great facilities and really looking forward to the journey on the Coast,” Ellis said.
“I’ve been really lucky to play in two flags in the last three years, so hopefully I can bring some of that knowledge up here and help out this group. There is so much talent and I think it could be exciting times ahead.”
“I played with Anthony Miles for three or four years at the Tigers, I’m good mates with him, and had a few years with Corey (Ellis) so it makes it a bit easier to break the ice having those two boys up here.
“I’ve known Secco (Alex Sexton) for a while as well, so he’s been awesome the past few days,” Ellis said.
List manager Craig Cameron said the Suns were thrilled to secure Ellis.
“Brandon has proven his ability at AFL level over the past eight seasons and we’re excited by the opportunity to add a duel premiership player to our midfield group,” Cameron said.
“In line with our strategy we’re keen to target players who will complement our young group and are committed to help drive our club forward, Brandon fits that perfectly.”
https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/more-news/every-completed-afl-trade-and-free-agency-deal-of-the-2019-player-exchange-period/news-story/1fb8f2254d616de8b40684477dd011e3