The Brisbane Lions' off-season has hit a snag, with a player they recently traded away publicly expressing his disappointment over how negotiations unfolded. Josh Gore, the small forward now at the Adelaide Crows, has labelled the trade process that brought him to South Australia as "a bit disappointing" from the Lions' perspective.
A One-Sided Trade Conversation
Gore's move to Adelaide was finalised during the recent AFL trade period, but the path to get there was far from smooth. The 22-year-old revealed that discussions with the Lions about his future were virtually non-existent. He was informed by Brisbane that he was not in their plans for 2025, yet the club did not actively engage in finding him a new home during the official trade window.
"It was a bit disappointing from their end," Gore stated, reflecting on the process. He explained that the communication essentially amounted to being told he was surplus to requirements, leaving him and his management to proactively seek opportunities elsewhere. This lack of proactive involvement from the Lions in facilitating a trade has raised eyebrows within AFL circles, where clubs often work together to manage player movements respectfully.
Gore's Fresh Start in Adelaide
Despite the awkward exit, Josh Gore is now firmly focused on his future with the Adelaide Crows. The trade, which saw him move in exchange for a future fourth-round draft pick, represents a crucial chance to reignite his AFL career. After being drafted by the Gold Coast Suns in 2019 and playing eight games, Gore managed just one senior appearance for the Brisbane Lions after joining them ahead of the 2023 season.
Adelaide sees potential in Gore's speed and goal-sense, attributes they believe can bolster their forward line. For Gore, the move is a welcome reset. He has expressed genuine excitement about joining the Crows, praising the club's culture and the warm reception he has received from coaches, staff, and new teammates. The disappointment of his Brisbane departure is now channeled into motivation for his fresh start.
Broader Implications for Brisbane's List Strategy
This incident casts a spotlight on the Brisbane Lions' list management strategy during a period of significant turnover. The club has been active in both acquiring and losing players, but Gore's comments suggest the human element of these business decisions can sometimes be overlooked. How a club manages departing players, especially those with limited senior opportunities, is a key aspect of its reputation and can influence future dealings with players and agents.
For the Lions, the focus remains on reshaping their list for another premiership tilt. However, Gore's candid remarks serve as a reminder that effective communication and professional courtesy during trade periods are vital. As for the player himself, all attention is on pre-season with Adelaide, where he aims to prove his worth and secure a regular spot in the Crows' best 22, leaving the trade impasse firmly in the past.
