Hinkley’s big call on St Kilda recruit

The AFL's introduction of modified ruck rules is certain to shake up the landscape of centre bounce, and one particular recruit could well be the standout beneficiary.

In attempt to bring back the jump, new footy boss Greg Swann has disallowed competing ruckman from stepping on or crossing the centre line during the restart.

This means that rucks are no longer able to put body on at centre bounce, instead enticing ruckman to jump and meet the ball at its highest point in order to win the tap.

While physical ruckman may not be overjoyed by the change, St Kilda's recruitment team may have anticipated the exact mould of player that can create the most advantage from the change.

And according to former Port Adelaide coach Ken Hinkley, it could propel their star recruit to the very top.

“Tom De Koning – best ruckman in the comp this year,” Hinkley called on SEN Sportsday.

“I think the change of rules are going to really play into his hands. If he stays fit and healthy, with all the pressures he was under last year…

“Changing clubs - it was clear to everyone that he was leaving, but the reality is with a bit of freedom now and the new rule change, he could be one of the best.

“With (Rowan) Marshall; what a dynamic duo they could be, but TDK for me could be a breakthrough player this year for the ruck position.”

Gerard Healy couldn't help but agree with his Sportsday co-host, stating his interest in watching how the competition's ageing ruck cohort cope with the change.

“I think he really struggled under the old ‘new rule’ that Laura Kane brought in,” Healy added.

“Now we’re back to the new ‘old rule’, and I think it’s going to suit jumping ruckman more.

“I look at Max (Gawn) – Max has lost his jump, as most people do when you get to his level of experience in the game. It’s going to be interesting to see how it unfolds and how it determines recruiting.”