Kane Cornes and David King have narrowed the 2022 premiership race down to three clubs.
After Garry Lyon said six teams can still win the flag, Cornes and King went through who they believe must be considered genuine threats.
On SEN Breakfast, Cornes asked: “How many teams can win the premiership?”
Fresh after watching Geelong dominate Melbourne at GMHBA Stadium on Thursday night, King still feels the reigning premiers have what it takes to bounce back.
He also has Brisbane, despite their recent loss to the Demons, and of course the Cats as the key triumvirate in his consideration.
“I’m a huge believer in Melbourne,” said King.
“I’m still sticking fat with Brisbane even though they got hammered by Melbourne a few weeks back at the MCG.
“The hardest part about winning the Grand Final is getting there. If they get the luxury of two Brisbane finals, they’ll be there.
“If you ask me to put money on it, I wouldn’t be writing off Geelong.
“I’ve just got the three. I would put my house on the top three.”
Cornes enquired about some other possible contenders including Fremantle, Carlton, Collingwood and Richmond.
Cornes: “So there’s no Fremantle?”
King: “I just think Fremantle are a year ahead. Next year they’ll probably be a better version of what we’re seeing.
“Outside of that I can’t see anyone else winning it.”
Cornes: “There’s no Carlton? They can’t (win it)? Not even if they get everyone back and rolling?”
King: “Not for me.
“They’re not defensively rigid enough. In a prelim final, all warts are exposed.”
Cornes: “Nick Riewoldt said on Monday night that Collingwood can win it.”
King: “Not for me.
“Do they pose the offensive threats that others possess? I don’t think so.
“Is their midfield going to compete with the absolute best at the end of it? I don’t think so.”
Cornes: “Richmond would be the other one that I like.
“But you have to finish top four.”
Cornes did make his selections, having one less than King, but did have a caveat when doing so.
“I’ve probably got two - Geelong and Melbourne,” he said.
“But don’t put that on social media because Geelong and Melbourne might play in the prelim.
“Don’t hold that against me.”
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