Analysis 2025 GWS Giants - Predicted best 22, breakout player(s), general player/team discussion & questions

[Giant Strides]

Sensing an opportunity after Harry Perryman's departure, Conor Stone has moved to the backline in a bid to earn a spot in the GIANTS' side. After an impressive season in the VFL, Stone is bent on elevating himself from fringe player to GIANTS standout.

The 22-year-old has only played 13 games since being drafted with pick No.15 in 2020, largely hampered by a wretched run of soft issue injuries. A fit-again Stone impressed in the VFL last season and was rewarded as the club's best-and-fairest for the second-tier competition. Still, Stone admits some dissatisfaction with the personal accolade. "It probably means I've played too many VFL games," Stone told AAP. "As humbling as it was, I'd rather be playing in the AFL."

The newly minted utility was meant to debut behind the ball in the final home-and-away round against the Western Bulldogs but was a late omission through illness and watched the GIANTS' straight-sets finals exit from the sidelines. Putting his hand up for their Opening Round match against the Magpies, Stone knows he'll have to fend off Joe Fonti and impressive draftee Harry Oliver if he wants to become a mainstay. Admitting his self-confidence was once lacking, Stone said he was determined to prove his class. "It's not like the spot is mine. I've got to go and earn it," he said. "I'm still trying to learn and develop my craft and figure out what the best version of me as a backman looks like."

 

[Bowski]

How is Rowston going? Loved him in his draft year and GWS training reports are as rare as hens teeth.

 

[PaythePerryman]

How is Rowston going? Loved him in his draft year and GWS training reports are as rare as hens teeth.

He battled some injuries last year after an impressive first year. I'd say once he's healthy we will start to see a lot more of him... potentially in place of Ward....or if Cogs is injured.
From what we've seen he's a super willing tackler and good mover.
Definitely one to get excited about.

 

[GWS Goose]

How is Rowston going? Loved him in his draft year and GWS training reports are as rare as hens teeth.

they love him internally.

 

[PaythePerryman]

they love him internally.

Yep I've heard players talk about him as the 'stand out'

 

[GWS Goose]

Yep I've heard players talk about him as the 'stand out'

definitely. The young guys nominated him as the best small (or non tall) from the 22/23 drafts

 

[domologue]

Yep I've heard players talk about him as the 'stand out'

I think there's a bit of Tim Taranto about him too.

Up and under. Gets rid of the ball cleanly with his hands (but maaaaybe we don't want him chucking it at his foot)...