Nick Watson's Ascent: Hawthorn's 'Wizard' Rivals Draft's Top Picks

Key facts

• Nick Watson has kicked 20 goals in eight games this season.
• He is rated the No. 1 general forward in the AFL after eight rounds.
• Former Fremantle captain Peter Bell would select Watson first in a redrafted 2023 AFL draft.
• Jack Riewoldt compares Watson's crumbing ability to Eddie Betts.
• Watson's significant physical gains.
• Watson is 21 years old.
• Fremantle's Shai Bolton is also referred to as a 'wizard'.

A New Star Casts His Spell

The AFL landscape is abuzz with the electrifying performances of Hawthorn's Nick Watson, a player whose dazzling craft has quickly earned him the moniker 'The Wizard'. As Hawthorn prepares to face Fremantle on Thursday night, Watson's ascent is not merely a personal triumph but a narrative that is prompting a re-evaluation of the 2023 national draft's pecking order. His emergence as a premier forward has captured the attention of former players and coaches, suggesting he might be the most impactful player from his draft year. Watson's influence is undeniable. He has already amassed 20 goals in eight games this season, establishing himself as the league's top-ranked general forward.ls and create opportunities, particularly in crucial moments, has become a hallmark of his play. This is not just about individual brilliance, but about a player who is fundamentally changing how his team operates in attack. The Hawthorn forward line, often a point of contention, finds a consistent spark in Watson. His recent performances, including a standout effort against Collingwood where he kicked two goals and set up another, underscore his importance. Coach Sam Mitchell has lauded Watson's dedication, noting significant physical improvements over the past nine months, and believes the young forward is yet to reach his full potential.

Revisiting the Draft Rankings

The exceptional form of Nick Watson has led former Fremantle captain Peter Bell to declare that he would now select the young Hawk with the No. 1 pick in the 2023 AFL national draft. This assessment places Watson ahead of highly touted prospects, including West Coast's Harley Reid, who was the consensus top pick at the time. Bell's endorsement is based on Watson's growing brilliance and outstanding craft, rather than any detraction from Reid's considerable talents. Reid, a dynamic player from Victoria, demonstrated his prowess with two goals and 26 disposals in West Coast's recent loss to Richmond. However, Bell's perspective highlights the subjective nature of draft assessments and how player development can reshape initial perceptions. Watson was always destined for a high draft position, but his current standing suggests he is exceeding expectations. His selection by Hawthorn was a strategic move, given his talent and junior accolades. Now, his performances are forcing a broader conversation about the true value unearthed from that draft class.

A Forward of Rare Calibre

The praise for Nick Watson extends beyond former club officials. Richmond legend Jack Riewoldt, now a commentator, has drawn a striking comparison between Watson's forward-line acumen and that of former Adelaide and Carlton star Eddie Betts. Riewoldt, watching Watson closely, noted his exceptional ability to read the play and attack contested situations at full speed. "He is the most watchable player in AFL football at the moment… This man is the best crumber of the footy since Eddie Betts," Riewoldt stated on Fox Footy's 'On The Couch'. He emphasized Watson's blend of flair and precise execution, qualities that make him a constant threat. Watson's impact is multifaceted. While his goal-scoring is a primary asset, his work rate and intensity around the ball also draw significant attention. Coach Sam Mitchell highlighted this all-around contribution, noting that Watson's pressure and commitment are difficult to replicate without dedicated training. This comprehensive skill set solidifies his status as a vital player for Hawthorn.

Hawthorn's Efficiency Woes

Despite Nick Watson's individual brilliance, Hawthorn faces a critical challenge in converting scoring opportunities into wins. The team's inability to put away Collingwood in their recent drawn match, despite having 10 more scoring shots and a dominant 19-5 advantage in centre clearances, points to a broader issue in forward-line efficiency. Coach Sam Mitchell acknowledged this front-half problem, stating that relying on such a lopsided centre clearance count is unsustainable. The Hawks' ranking of third for scores per 50-metre entries indicates they are generating chances, but the conversion rate needs improvement, especially heading into a clash with Fremantle. This inefficiency becomes particularly stark when contrasted with Fremantle's formidable seven-game winning streak. The Dockers, who sit second on the ladder, boast a strong defensive record and a history of success against Hawthorn, having won seven of their past eight encounters. The upcoming match at Optus Stadium will test Hawthorn's ability to overcome these scoring woes against a high-flying opponent.

A Clash of 'Wizards'

Thursday night's encounter between Hawthorn and Fremantle is billed as a contest between two of the league's most exciting talents, both dubbed 'wizards' in their own right. While Nick Watson holds the direct nickname, Fremantle's Shai Bolton is a player of similar mercurial ability, particularly known for his late-game heroics. Bolton, 27, is enjoying a career-best season, averaging personal highs in disposals, contested and uncontested possessions, and clearances. He has evolved into a bona fide midfielder capable of influencing games from anywhere on the ground, a fact reinforced by his dominant fourth-quarter performances in recent wins. His ability to consistently deliver under pressure has earned him significant praise, with teammate Mason Cox describing him as "one of the most exciting players I’ve ever played with." The potential for Watson and Bolton to share the same space on the ground adds an intriguing layer to the match. Fremantle coach Justin Longmuir acknowledges Watson's danger as a small forward and highlighted the defensive adjustments his team will need to make. The tactical battle between these two 'wizards' promises to be a highlight of the round, potentially offering a preview of September finals action.

The bottom line

• Nick Watson's current form has led to suggestions he could have been the No. 1 pick in the 2023 AFL draft.
• He is recognized as the league's premier general forward after eight rounds.
• Watson's skill set and impact have drawn comparisons to former AFL star Eddie Betts.
• Hawthorn faces challenges with forward-line efficiency despite Watson's scoring contributions.
• The match against Fremantle features a compelling duel between Nick Watson and Shai Bolton, both known for their game-changing abilities.