Star midfielder Bryce Gibbs will join Adelaide for the 2018 season after a trade was agreed upon with Carlton on Thursday morning.
In a deal that presents much better value for the Club than what was proposed 12 months ago, the Crows acquire Gibbs, Carlton’s future second-round and third-round picks and this year’s pick 77 in exchange for picks 10 and 16, Adelaide’s future second-round selection and this year’s pick 73.
Recruited from Glenelg with the first pick in the 2006 AFL National Draft, Gibbs returns to South Australia on a four-year deal after 231 games with the Blues.
Adelaide General Manager List Management and Strategy Justin Reid said it was a great outcome to be able bring in such a high-calibre player as well as strengthen the Club's position in next year’s bumper draft.
“This deal presents much better value compared to what was first discussed 12 months ago with the return of future draft picks from Carlton, in what we consider a very strong draft, a key component for us,” Reid said.
“To be able to bring in an A-grade midfielder and improve our position for next year’s draft is a great result for our Club.
“Bryce is not only a quality player, but a quality person as well and he will have an immediate impact on our playing group both on and off the field.”
The 28-year-old, who is strong around the contest and uses the ball well on the outside, will add polish and versatility to Adelaide’s midfield.
Gibbs averaged 27 possessions this year and kicked 17 goals to finish top five in Carlton’s goalkicking.
The 188cm, 85kg, onballer led the Blues for clearances (109) and tackles (123), this year and ranked second at the club for inside 50ms (79), contested possessions (223) and score involvements (123).
As durable as he is skilful, Gibbs has lined up in 231 of a possible 248 matches since making his AFL debut against Richmond in Round One, 2007.