Round 6 is shaping as a big one for captaincy decisions, with a mix of safe premiums & strong ruck options.
The Standout Picks
Nick Daicos against Carlton is about as safe as it gets. He’s in elite form, racks it up with ease, and consistently delivers a high floor with a ceiling to match. A genuine set-and-forget captain this week.
Luke Jackson versus West Coast shapes as one of the best plays of the round. With Sean Darcy out, Mason Cox will step in, but Jackson should still take on a big share of ruck — and we know what that means for scoring. Massive upside and one of the leading captain choices.
Max Gawn against Brisbane continues to do what he always does — score. The matchup isn’t simple, but Gawn has proven he can deliver regardless. You can confidently back him in every week.
Brodie Grundy up against the Giants is another strong ruck option. GWS have been giving up points to opposition big men, and Grundy’s work rate around the ground (tackles and possessions) gives him a great mix of floor and ceiling.
Harry Sheezel versus Richmond is ticking plenty of boxes. The Tigers have been generous, and Sheezel’s role continues to produce consistent scoring. A very safe option with upside.
Solid Options
Isaac Heeney against GWS is always in the mix. He can go huge, but you’re accepting a bit of volatility depending on role and game flow.
Christian Petracca versus Essendon is another premium to consider. Proven scorer, big-game player — but first game back from injury.
Caleb Serong is the fallback if you don’t have Jackson. Has been inconsistent but he’s playing against West Coast.
Proceed with Caution
Bailey Smith against the Bulldogs is a tough matchup and could limit his output.
Marcus Bontempelli versus Geelong also comes with risk, with a potential tag from Mark O’Connor looming.
Zak Butters heads into a tough week. With off-field noise and Hawthorn likely to control large parts of the game, it feels like one to steer clear of.
St Kilda pair Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera and Jack Sinclair have been rollercoasters this season — not ideal for captaincy.
Final Word
If you’re playing it safe, it’s hard to go past 2 of Daicos, Sheezel, Grundy, Gawn and Jackson.
As a non-Nick owner, and the Demons (Gawn) game too close to the Fremantle game for my liking, I’ll likely lock in Sheezel against Richmond into Jackson against WCE.
