If Taran Armstrong doesn't go O/S and they could sign him it would be massive for them. I wish he'd stay at Cairns, but that isn't going to happen.

The JJs should through the bag at Doolitte. He would be a perfect fit for Roth and the Jackies culture.

Sounds like Magnay would definitely be NBA bound but for his ongoing proneness to injury and regardless it may be a deja vu McVeigh situation with him going late in the off season.

Also a real chance Armstrong goes late too and after being signed.

Same with Reyne Smith although probably a much more remote chance he gets picked up on a 2 way.

That would all make for some off season challenges but let's hope that doesn’t spill over and compromise the season proper once again.

We won’t have to wait long to see who is being squeezed out as the JJs will announce those prior to early moves in free agency and I think that is a given.

Sean MacDonald/Import PG (or Taran?)
Doyle/Reyne Smith
Drmic/???/Walter Brown
Bannan/Deng
Magnay/???

Do the JJs sign Taran, let him play out the NBA path and leave an import spot open to cover for a possible late offseason NBA callup?

Tanner Groves type would be great as a Magnay backup.

Not sure how important backup SF will be. I suspect the above lineup would roll with a three guard lineup a lot.

Agree Ant Ant Ant, think that would be a terrific lineup but would be surprised if other arrangements are not made for Brown. Reckon the last import spot will be a big as well and Tanner Groves would be a good get. Works because the guard minutes can effectively be rotated between Armstrong, MacDonald and Doyle given all can all play on or off the ball.

Lots of unknowns for the JJs like other teams, Roth has stated he has been active since December.

Hope the murmurs re Bannon are legit I really rate him.

Think Armstrong will command a fair bit of $s but would be worth investing in as it would free up other spots on the roster.

Hope Drmic, Doyle, and Reyne Smith but they are all question marks.

Would love to see a legit 4/5 to assist / cover Magnay.

This off season will be the most interesting yet for the JJs. Trust Roth he has had some funky line ups this year almost like he has been testing out for the next season for quite a while.

The first season was very interesting imo, certainly when the roster was put together and 99.5% said it was rubbish, now we know how that turned out. ::))))'

Yep - general consensus was before the first season what a bunch of off cast hacks without any stars. Love how Roth has sucked in some coaches and commentators to get all defensive when he talks about defending the island.

This is the first off season where I expect there will be high turnover and for me there is intrigue re the players Roth brings in as up until now he has not recruited the out and out gun player who is your cliche shooter / stud.

Not keeping Hummer???
Marshall may give some scoring power but would be dragged for his defensive lapses too much. Hurt as well, and would be pretty expensive.
I think Armstrong would try his hand in the gleague for a year if he officially isn't signed. And wouldn't discount McVeigh returning as well.
Definitely need to add a big as insurance for Magnay one way or another. Either a starting 4 that can slide to 5, or a cheap import 5 that can come off bench.
Sorry to see Crawford go, was a good role for him coming off bench to add spark, maybe if price is right and they sign quality locals, but think he could be done. Else they go with another import guard, probably experienced and able to run team without turnovers which hurt them this season. Whats WMW situation ATM, would be a good addition to this team especially.
But a few people here liked Hummer, he sets really good screens and suited their culture, so don't rule him out.

Your sarcasm ooozes Phanton

Roth has said McVeigh has big money offers from Europe and Asia if he leaves the NBA and won't be returning to the JJs next year.

I would be surprised if JC’s money didn’t go close to covering both Armstrong and Bannan. They were going to pay WMW a very big number last free agency and that must have been coming from JC’s money. They were reportedly paying Josh Adam’s over $600K in 2022 and reportedly spent $3.4 Million all up in 2024.

Then there is McVeigh’s money and what they were paying Marcus Lee in 2014.

That seems a lot of available spend. They could also just marquee Armstrong and go with 2 imports and bring in someone like Garry Clarke or Anthony Lamb (back healthy and playing in Italy).

Will be very interesting what they do with their imports. Justin Simon reportedly wants to return to the NBL and would also be a Roth type player.

"Sean MacDonald/Import PG (or Taran?)
Doyle/Reyne Smith
Drmic/???/Walter Brown
Bannan/Deng
Magnay/???"

How did I leave out Majok Deng? As far as Im concerned he will be a jackjumper for life now unless something catastrophic happens. He is a great community man, damn good player and a culture first person. Every team needs a Majok, will be interesting to see if anyone comes after him next season or two.

"I would be surprised if JC's money didn’t go close to covering both Armstrong and Bannan. They were going to pay WMW a very big number last free agency and that must have been coming from JC’s money. They were reportedly paying Josh Adam’s over $600K in 2022 and reportedly spent $3.4 Million all up in 2024."

I think JC took a decent paycut to come back last season so not sure if he was to leave that it would pay for Taran and Bannan. I'm still not sold on Bannan, I think he will be a solid player for years to come but not a game changer so at the right price he is worth it but you shouldn't be paying overs for him.

"go with 2 imports and bring in someone like Garry Clarke or Anthony Lamb"

unsure if either of these two fit the culture of this club, they both have had their off-court issues(although Clarkes could be seen as less of an issue with no actual damage caused). Both are extremely talented players though who would provide exactly what is needed, big scoring punch and some bully ball in the post.
I really don't see Walter Brown coming back as he was given basically no time this season even when other dps did get some time he was still stuck to the bench.
I think the biggest question is what happens if Magnay gets an NBA shot at the end of this season( I know he is still on the road to recovery but you never know but where's the smoke...) and then stitches up a proper contract(or two way) for next season. How do we replace him? Elite level defense(blocks, low post and ability to switch onto smaller players almost unmatched in our league), lob threat and you can run the offense through him in the high post also.

Maybe the new owners wont care about the salary cap and spend freely(albeit paying tax) to get whatever high level imports Roth wants/needs. If we have a high end import Centre, import PF and backup import PG/SG we could roll with Macca, Doyle and Drmic as the other starters and that should be a good team under Roth.
In saying all that don't discount the fact if mags goes, JC goes and Clint is gone we have lost a lot of leadership that wont be easy to fill or replicate. I think look at Fab as next captain(VC for a couple of seasons now) or him and Doyle as co captains and then hope your imports step up in that area also.
Interesting but exciting times ahead for the Jackie's. Cant wait for it all to kick off for them.

Best lineup I am hoping(assuming)will lineup for next season
PG-Macca/high end backup import PG(who can slide to the 2 spot), third string ala stoddart/kyle adnam
SG-Doyle/Macca & Drmic in spot mins plus the high end import backup pg
SF- Drmic/Next star(hopefully a 3-4)/Doyle in spot mins
PF-High end import like Matt Hurt/ Tanner Groves/Fab/next star in spot mins
C-Magnay/ Matt Hurt/tanner groves/fab
* Does Reyne Smith fit somewhere as a DP or will he be offered better somewhere else?
** I'm not sure if Armstrong comes back to the NBL now, surely even if the NBA doesn't pan out he gets Euro offers?? Thus why I dont have him on this team next season but we can hope I guess

Good post Viewbank116

"Sean MacDonald/Import PG (or Taran?)
Doyle/Reyne Smith
Drmic/???/Walter Brown
Bannan/Deng
Magnay/???"

Taran out, some questions re imports and Krslovic / Brown.

Really don't get the love for tanner groves the games I watched he looked pretty uninspiring nothing standout about him would be plenty of better options around

"Really don't get the love for tanner groves the games I watched he looked pretty uninspiring nothing standout about him would be plenty of better options around"

I think its probably a few reasons
-already knows the league and should(hopefully) be able to adjust his game next season to avoid being in foul trouble so often
-can bang down low or step outside and hit the three ball which makes him attractive for many teams
-is a good rebounder and decent shot blocker
-listed at 6ft 10in so can slide between 4 and 5 spot easily
-also a solid defender and seemed liked a solid citizen which again makes him attractive for many teams
-I dont think he would be commanding a crazy salary either so could be great value
-is only 25 at start of next season so plenty of room for growth in his game, so could be a nice option to give a 2-3 year contract

Viewbank116 I think his a solid player but has limitations, especially offensively with McVeigh not coming back the jack jumpers will have some cash and should be aiming high they need an elite pf that plays both ways should be aiming for a Garry Clark dj Hogg level player

"they need an elite pf that plays both ways should be aiming for a Garry Clark dj Hogg level player"

Totally understanding where you are coming from and don't disagree, I am just basing my opinion on what they have done so far in the 4 seasons in the league in regards to import player recruitment. Never have really gone for the bigger name types, always happy to go for the bit lesser known names I assume in the hope they will fit the culture better.
I would love taipans Hogg there but his last season in Sydney he seemed to float in and out of games which the jj's don't need as they already have an import like that.
I think a big bag of cash and 2 or 3 year offer thrown at Matt Hurt is the perfect answer here. Can slide to the 5, hit from outside, has a great array of low post moves and has good height to help around the paint.

With Armstrong gone to the NBA that probably means both JC and Stoddart are a good chance of staying. Let's just say for arguments sake that the open local full roster sports are the one vacated by Steindel (retired), Terangi and one ot two of Fab/Gak. Stoddart and Smith take 2 of those and then someone like Waadenburg or Bannon takes the other one. Then, the 3rd import is an import 4/5. That makes for a very strong guard/wing group and a very strong front Court with Magnay and Deng already signed. We won’t get Smith with just a DP and he deserves a full roster spot anyway as he will play minutes as a designated shooter.

PG: MacDonald/ Crawford
SG: Doyle/ Stoddart
SF: Drmic/ Smith/ NS
PF: Clarke/ Deng/ Bannan or Fab
C: Magnay/ Waadenburg or Gak

That maybe stretches the available spend a bit but gee if everyone stays healthy, another Chip in the making.

"With Armstrong gone to the NBA that probably means both JC and Stoddart are a good chance of staying. Let's just say for arguments sake that the open local full roster sports are the one vacated by Steindel (retired), Terangi and one ot two of Fab/Gak. Stoddart and Smith take 2 of those and then someone like Waadenburg or Bannon takes the other one. Then, the 3rd import is an import 4/5. That makes for a very strong guard/wing group and a very strong front Court with Magnay and Deng already signed. We won't get Smith with just a DP and he deserves a full roster spot anyway as he will play minutes as a designated shooter.

PG: MacDonald/ Crawford
SG: Doyle/ Stoddart
SF: Drmic/ Smith/ NS
PF: Clarke/ Deng/ Bannan or Fab
C: Magnay/ Waadenburg or Gak

That maybe stretches the available spend a bit but gee if everyone stays healthy, another Chip in the making."

Love it KL, but not sure we get Waardenburg or Bannan with bench roles lined up. They would only want to be starters in this league I think moving forward. So unless Magnay leaves I don't think we have go for Waardenburg but maybe they feel Bannan offers enough to be our starting 4 man(can backup at centre also).
If Magnay was to go I would love to see us go hard after a Derek Pardon type, proper big, rolls hard and plays good defense. I could see him and Doyle, Mcdonald connecting on many lobs

This may also lead to an elite bench scorer to play at the 1-2 spots(like Noi does for the kings on the 3-4 spot)
I feel that we would need/want a touch more back court depth after Seanny macs injuries last season, JC will be 35 by the time the season starts and Stoddart very untested.
If we could get a bigger import PG to come off the bench instead of bringing back JC(which I think he does come back by the way, just won the teams MVP award) that could hold us in good stead on the defensive end.

I would let Gak go and keep fab as a 5-10mins per game backup pf/c. Hoping that the import 4 man or Bannan can slide to the 5 when needed plus Majok can play there when going a bit smaller.
I can actually see the club keeping terangi around also as he was solid on both ends, can go between 3-4, hit from outside, has a semi decent post game and seems to get himself opportune mismatches often plus he seemed to fit right into the culture of the club but time will tell.

regardless of all of the above if we are healthy we are in with a massive shot again I believe as that is just how good the club is run. They pick the right player 99% of the time, never have any on-court/off-court crap to deal with and simply never give up.
I honestly think if Magnay and Mcdonald had played 70-80%(including most of the back end of the season) of the games after Maccas pre-season injury we would have been top 2 and most likely back in the grand final series. Sword probably is kept on and ends up being a really decent sized piece of the puzzle for us.
Literally cannot wait for next season to start already

Crawford off the bench is a luxury they can't have I expect, unless he's dirt cheap. Even then he was sent to the bench partly because of his struggles. Really short scoring PGs that lose a bit of speed tend to go downhill fairly quickly. Shame as he's had a big impact in the time was here. Pity there aren't rules in place to hurry through citizenship (poor Bryce) if the player truly intends to make Australia his home. I know he's said Tassie is his home, does he really want to become an Aussie.
First thing on shopping list is a big. Groves may fit the bill, isn't a sexy pickup but can get the job done. Pros and cons about bringing a player back, knows the league but has that guaranteed contract.
Next would be a bit of offence at the 3. Think Drmic is better suited off the bench, or can fill in starting part-time when Magnay gets hurt. Speaking of Hurt, he's a big time scorer but will be highly in demand. And can see Sydney offering a lot, especially depending on what happens with Cooks.
Lastly, just an experienced guy to come off the bench, someone that can sit for a few games but be relied upon to not bitch and step up when required. That could turn naturally into Krslovic or Te Rangi depending on recruits, don't really want them playing major minutes like this season with the injuries, but fairly dependable. And someone that can set good screens.
The Magnay injury may have a silver lining, could have been a decent pickup for a NBA team looking for a defensive big atm, but probably has missed his shot after being out so long. And if he impressed they might have lost another key part 2 years running.

"Crawford off the bench is a luxury they can't have I expect, unless he's dirt cheap. Even then he was sent to the bench partly because of his struggles. Really short scoring PGs that lose a bit of speed tend to go downhill fairly quickly. Shame as he's had a big impact in the time was here. Pity there aren't rules in place to hurry through citizenship (poor Bryce) if the player truly intends to make Australia his home. I know he's said Tassie is his home, does he really want to become an Aussie."
I think JC would come back very cheap as he would have limited options in a decent and safe country at his age and I think the JJ's will keep him around as mentioned before due to him winning team mvp, his solid play most of the season and being a solid citizen for us and seemingly never sulking when sent to the bench.


"Next would be a bit of offence at the 3. Think Drmic is better suited off the bench, or can fill in starting part-time when Magnay gets hurt. Speaking of Hurt, he's a big time scorer but will be highly in demand. And can see Sydney offering a lot, especially depending on what happens with Cooks."

If we were to get an elite four man(ala Matt hurt) then have Doyle, McDonald(who I think jumps to about 14-15pts per game next season) and Magnay in the starting lineup I'm not sure you need much more scoring than what Drmic offers(8-10pts per game).
He is the sort of player you don't need to run any plays for as he just go gets it, slashes and spots up for the open 3's. Pesky on defense and can bring the ball up the floor when needed. Almost a perfect fit for this team if we don't have a next level type of 3 coming in.
I believe Sydney will keep Cooks and look to bring in a true centre plus solid point guard(could they go for derrick walton again?) regardless of what happens with Adams so I don't feel they are in the running for Hurt.

This is a few days old now but only just saw it ex Michael Randall re JJs:

"INTEL: Putting together a huge play for Brisbane's Boomer forward Josh Bannan in what would be a huge signature to slot in alongside elite two-way centre Will Magnay. Bannan feels like a JackJumpers kind of guy who might benefit from the no-nonsense regime in Tassie."

Tend to agree re: Bannan. Injuries are a bit of a concern, but I still feel he could end up being one of the best Aussie bigs in the league over the next couple of seasons, and there's probably no better place for that to happen than in Tasmania.

Hurt is not a JJs style player. The JJs system can cover up some individual defensive deficiencies, but playing Hurt 28-30 mins a game could actually bring the whole defensive scheme undone imo.

AntAntAnt it's a tough one bit of a double edged sword they missed McVeigh a lot and need to bring in a legitimate 4 that can consistently put up15-20 points l like a hurt . or do you go the other way and get a really strong defensive 4/5 to help magnay when they had Marcus Lee and magnay alternating on and off court last season it gave them a big advantage inside against other teams.

I just think they'd take a little bit less in offensive production from an import 4/5 (Hurt is particularly excellent) as a trade off for someone who is at least average on the defensive end.

D will be non-negotiable for Roth. It will be the Jackie way or the highway as usual. Reckon Hurt's asking price will be bid up beyond what the JJs would be willing to pay anyway. If Roth tells the player agents to go find me a Hurt type of player who plays both ways and we have $600K for the right piece then that is how I see this playing out.

There is latent scoring to be exploited anyway with MacDonald back and playing the role envisaged for this season, the continued evolution of Deng along with Bannan and Smith if we get them.

The import 4/5 just takes us back to into the championship sphere for certain.

Gun Import 4/5 has been the missing link for the JJs

Scout, if we had a gun 4/5 in 2022 and 2023 with Magette at PG then that would have moved the dial in both years.

With MacDonald at PG and a gun 4/5 then as good as JC is, I can see Roth going for a Justin Simon as the other import.

Then is MacDonald, Doyle, Stoddart and Smith enough in the guard positions? Probably not but he may roll that dice.

The list of 4/5 imports in the NBL that play defense is short for a reason.

KL I agree its non negotiable absolutely need a elite 4 the problem is it's unlikely you get that in a third import which is why Crawford might have to be let go unless his happy to stay on significantly less money. With Sean Mac healthy and ready to start maybe you take a punt on a young cheaper import guard with upside , I still think we need a back up five as well I think we keep gak as he really developed offensively but still got exposed defensively, fab has been great for us but it might be his time to move on his game seemed to drop off quite a bit last season, with Clint going as well probably need another shooter

AAA, agree easier said than done.

Baller, yes I get the feeling too that if Bannan comes in then maybe Fab moves on and Gak stays.

The other thing though I could see Roth doing is just running with Bannan and Deng at the 4 (no import) and Marcus Lee comes back. That would mean Gak goes too and opens up another local spot for a Kenyon type which has been a gaping hole in the roster ever since he left. That still leaves the JC conundrum and maybe he stays on for another year.

I have heard yes a massive pitch has been put in for Bannan and its almost a done deal as long as he remains in the NBL. He will again test the NBA waters but failing that he is locked in for the JJ's next season.
I still think they keep Fab(workhorse, loyal, leadership and team morale are second to none) and move Gak on.
I think a Marcus Lee type to be the back up 4-5 would be great-defensive minded, lob threat and a offers great rim protection at all times.
So does this leave the Jackie's chasing a high end import for the SF spot? It seems that way and would a motivated DJ Hogg(as Baller above mentioned) slot in there(can slide to 4 & 5 spot when needed) or is there a better option?
Hogg offers outside shooting, solid shot blocking and length we have never had at the 3.

Is Bannon an nba quality big, I'm far from convinced, certainly suit JJs though, as Rucker said needs to stay healthy.

"Is Bannon an nba quality big, I'm far from convinced, certainly suit JJs though,"

At this stage who knows but we could probably have said the same thing about McVeigh 2-3 years ago now look at him, championship winner, finals mvp, boomer and nba player. With the right peers and structure around you anything is possible.

Yes you are correct Bannan would suit the jj's very nicely, and yes hopefully he has a relatively clean bill of health next few seasons. If he can develop his outside shot more(took a slight dip this season) he should fair well in the frontcourt next to mags, help on the boards and can also have the offense run through him in the high post if needed.

Good point re McVeigh, probably slightly more athletic than Bannon though. As you say things can change quickly. My point was that I don't see nba at present and if JJs sign him he should be available.

I have also heard if OS fails for Taran Armstrong JJ's have him locked up also. I assume this would mean either JC comes back extremely cheap or they look for a cheaper backup local PG(Adnam/F.Cameron)?
Maybe they would load up on good to great import 3 and then mid level import 4 & 5 as backups to Bannan, Magnay and Deng. Could be a good move considering their injury histories

I can't see Cameron being cheap considering how much he improved with United.

Think Roth said they would not make a decision on Stoddart until the end of NBL1 so maybe they are intending to leave a local roster spot open til August anyway. That makes things even more unclear on what happens with JC though. Personally I wouldn't be constructing the roster with Armstrong coming back in mind. That will just leave them in the same quandary as they were with McVeigh this season. Though, perhaps they are already in that quandary if they have signed Armstrong and can’t really spend his money on anyone else in case he comes back. Surely not.

Why would Cameron move unless it's for a big payday and starting. He might be biding his time as Melbourne get older.
Someone like Hurt would test Roth's patience too much, he's the type of coach that'll drag players for making mistakes, and if Hurt couldn't become at least an average defender in college it'll be trying to teach an old dog new tricks. Only reason I mentioned him to Sydney is they love the buy the biggest free agent on the market, Brian will love another excuse such as bad defence when they fail again.
Armstrong will stay with GSW for at least another year to see how he progresses, they haven't signed him now to contribute in playoffs.
If they get Bannan that would definitely send Drmic to bench and give Crawford a lifeline. Then find a cheap young big out of college and let Roth mould him. As long as he can set good screens. Bench would become pretty deep with Crawford, Drmic, Deng and import big.

Just announced that Drmic has resigned. JJs taking up team option.

Good signing, developed into a very useful player at both ends.

Could Izayah Le'Afa be a cheap option at backup PG for the JJ's? I know his shooting fell off a cliff entirely this season but I feel this may have smply because of the on court issues the kings had all season.
His pesky defense would be more than welcomed in that position in Tassie and if he can get his shooting this could be an under rated signing

Just watched a podcast with Darren Smith from a couple of days ago. Said the JJs will be making changes and going younger and more athletic. Also said what they did this season in seeking to run it back with largely the same group is gone and they will be looking to move in a different direction for 2026.

With 35 year old Steindel retired and 33 year old Drmic re-signed the balance of the unsigned 2024 Championship roster that played this season is Brown, Fab, Doyle and JC.

Would have to interpret from what Smith said that means at least two maybe 3 of that 4 are gone.

Of the remainder of the local contingent on the 2025 roster, Stoddart is 24, Gak is 27 and Terangi is 30.

Thought there were positive some vibes when Stoddart's name was mentioned.

Doyle is 32 in October, JC is 35 in July and Hummer is 35 in August.

So, would say Hummer’ replacement definitely younger and more athletic. No surprises there.

That’s not moving the dial much though in terms of age and athleticism.

Don’t think anyone would say Doyle and Crawford are not athletic and the JJs need some continuity with leadership and showing the Jackie way etc. So I don’t think they would run the risk of 3 new imports.

So, from all of that I would deduce that Hummer, Terangi and probably Fab and JC are all gone. NB: only mentioning Hummer for completeness. No-one was expecting a return there.

Then there is the Walter Brown conundrum.

"Just watched a podcast with Darren Smith from a couple of days ago. Said the JJs will be making changes and going younger and more athletic. Also said what they did this season in seeking to run it back with largely the same group is gone and they will be looking to move in a different direction for 2026.

With 35 year old Steindel retired and 33 year old Drmic re-signed the balance of the unsigned 2024 Championship roster that played this season is Brown, Fab, Doyle and JC.

Would have to interpret from what Smith said that means at least two maybe 3 of that 4 are gone.

Of the remainder of the local contingent on the 2025 roster, Stoddart is 24, Gak is 27 and Terangi is 30.

Thought there were positive some vibes when Stoddart's name was mentioned.

Doyle is 32 in October, JC is 35 in July and Hummer is 35 in August.

So, would say Hummer' replacement definitely younger and more athletic. No surprises there.

That’s not moving the dial much though in terms of age and athleticism.

Don’t think anyone would say Doyle and Crawford are not athletic and the JJs need some continuity with leadership and showing the Jackie way etc. So I don’t think they would run the risk of 3 new imports.

So, from all of that I would deduce that Hummer, Terangi and probably Fab and JC are all gone. NB: only mentioning Hummer for completeness. No-one was expecting a return there.

Then there is the Walter Brown conundrum."

I think with Magnay(27yo at start of next season), Josh Bannan(24yo), McDonald(25yo at start of next season) being a massive part of the core(if not the biggest three moving forward) and Hummer, Steindl and probably terangi gone the JJ's already would be younger next season disregarding any incoming imports and/or JC leaving. If we somehow do add Armstrong then we are younger and more athletic than we have ever been.

I still think Fab stays(work horse, leadership and a damn solid citizen) and unsure about JC(depends on price, Armstrong or other import PG's and their price), but I can see us keeping him if cheap enough and just top up with a really good backup import 3-4 or 4-5 then fill in any spots with locals(reyne smith etc.) and health permitting we are right back in the mix.

For anything JC may be lacking he makes up for in heart, effort, leadership, cojones in big moments and humility. He is a perfect JackJumper in all aspects and was probably the perfect person to replace Magette as his personality(humble and hungry) seems to be very much the same while adding more scoring power.

Yes Walter Brown probably needs to go but how we do it I don't know, can we buy him out for a smaller portion of his contract? I think the talent is there but just hasn't earnt the JJ's coaching staff trust for whatever reason.

No disagreement with anything re Fab's character and qualities. Of all the remaining unsigned 2024 championship team though Fab is neither young or athletic. If it is just Stiendel retiring then not really a move in a different direction. Bannan is also effectively the same roster piece but an upgrade (no disrespect to Fab). Will be a very sad day though if he goes. Same with JC.

Surely Gak has more upside and length than Krislovic, Bannon would fit very nicely at JJs.

"Surely Gak has more upside and length than Krislovic, Bannon would fit very nicely at JJs."
By next season start Gak will be 29yo and fab will be 30yo so I dont think upside is a thing in this case. If Gak hasn't reached close to his potential yet it is not going to happen.

"
No disagreement with anything re Fab's character and qualities. Of all the remaining unsigned 2024 championship team though Fab is neither young or athletic. If it is just Stiendel retiring then not really a move in a different direction."

I think Clint leaving will be a big reason Fab stays, the JJ's simply would not want to lose all that leadership and character in one off-season. Fab as an end of the bench back up 4/5 playing anything from 0-10mins per game is still a good option for most teams in this league and it almost has nothing to do with his on court ability(which I think he still can offer something-especially if he picks up his outside shooting again and his free throw shooting was career best this season so the touch is still there).

Just like Bairstow got a crack at the bullets this season purely for his character, culture driving and leadership Fab can still offer this to the JJ's.
Fab has never been athletic and his age shouldn't be a big concern as he has been basically injury free his whole career so far.

Said Gak is 27 in above post by yourself.

"Said Gak is 27 in above post by yourself."

KL said Gak is 27yo when in fact he is 28 and will turn 29yo in november

The spend on Fab would not be insignificant though and his shooting was so much on the slide during the back half of the year that Roth commented on it in a Presser and then it fell away even more. Started missing absolute dollies around the rim.

That's what raised the question mark in my mind before even before the podcast.

Gak on the other hand had some really good minutes in the back half of the season and certainly looked a Roth project player.

Fab and gaks roles will depend on who we bring in at the 4 if it's bannan and a quality import big then it probably squeezes fab out , as his defence won’t be needed as much gaks offence off the bench. I can’t understand how we could possibly keep brown and not stodadard that would be madness . Does anyone know Matt kenyons contract status would love to have him back

Kenyon is a free agent. Seems to have been in favour with King more recently so will be interesting whether SEM try to keep him. That is the thing though if the JJs have a front court import then Fab's money and roster spot could get a defensive stopper like Kenyon.

Drmic signed on for next year; has been handy at both ends of the court this year.


Pleased he is a JJ.

Gak option declined. He won't return to the JJs.

So what does that make it.

Under contract: Magnay, Deng, Macdonald, Drmic

FA's: Doyle, Crawford, Hummer, Gak, Te Rangi, Krslovic, Barker

Out: Steindl

A little surprising. Must have been a tough call. Maybe a Marcus Lee/Pardon type is incoming.

Next big calls are Fab and Terangi.

Just proves the point that Aussie Hoopla not always on the money as the most recent update had Gak as expected to re-sign.

Brown and Woodhill also under contract, a pending option on Nunn

Everyone else out of contract, though I don't believe Barkers IRP contract is still relevant

Hearing rumours the club is looking closely at harry froling definitely talented but would be a risky move considering he hasn't played for a couple of years

Big body with talent, wouldn't cost the earth either. You would think that his attitude would be a lot better than previous after the unfortunate incident he had and Roth might be the man to do it.

Does he have the work ethic to survive under Roth?

If he doesn't it’ll be end of the road.

Hope things work out for Harry, but hard to think of a less likely JJs signing.

I was never on the Froling band wagon, always thought very overrated but everyone deserves a second chance and Roth could be the answer. Hopefully he has turned it around and I wish him well.

Well they have only cleared 2 full roster spots so far and Walter Brown is already notionally in one of those and the rumoured high level local in the other. That would mean others will need to be shown door which needs to happen anyway if they need a full roster spot for Reyne Smith. Frolling doesn't really add up imo. Also rumours Terangi is in talks to return.

Frolling is a great signing there because he'd be pretty cheap, and the ceiling is so high. Chances of him really maximising his potential may be small but it's the best place to give him the chance. Hopefully the environment in Tassie on and off court works for him.

Baller's murmurings usually have some substance.

Not sure of this one, Froling played for the Huskies back in the day do not think he will be a JJ.

As Dunkman says also wish him well he has been through a fair bit

Yes in the JJs days Stewart nearly punted him, was a lot trouble but that's before everything that has happened since.

Froling had great talent, good rookie year then stopped working, wouldn't have helped being in Joey's doghouse. Had a second chance with Brisbane but still didn't look like he put the work in.
Maybe he's turned the corner and Roth's seen something. If anything, he's a big body and can shoot. Maybe if he's put on a contract dictating body fat percentage it might work. But being alive is a win for him.

Scout from what I heard jarred weeks has met with him recently , weeks is coaching the chargers in nbl1 this off season so not sure if the meeting was chargers or jackjumper related

Wieskamp incoming...

If true re Wieskamp he cold be very useful, reasonable all round game, I'm not certain he has the best iq but under Roth where it’s drilled in be very good acquisition.

Think BB was first to post re the incoming of Hummer so probably on the money.

I like wieskamp as a player but from a structural point how does he fit Doyle will take up one import spot they desperately need a 4/5 with one of the other spots and you would have thought another pg Crawford or someone else with the last spot, unless there planning to run with MacDonald and another local guard how does wieskamp fit

Cheers Baller reckon it is the Chargers.....even if they are saying their direction is getting local kids games they could still do with Froling.

They have a bit unit called Olie Angerstein as well.

Wieskamp is an interesting one, shooter but not consistent. Does he address the needs of the JJs which I believe is a 4 who can score and get boards.

Wieskamp is just a better version of Anthony Drmic

Could Wieskamp be replacing Doyle? Be a strange move if Doyle was staying, but if he's not then it would make sense.

Froling playing in NZ over winter, Harry one.

Weiskamp maybe just rotates through the 2 with Doyle and Smith and the 3 with Drmic.

Doyle has been doing a lot of ball handling the past 2 seasons anyway and maybe they just go with MacDonald, Doyle and Stoddart rotating through the 1.

Stoddart and MacDonald can obviously play off the ball as well if needed.

Then the other import in the front court.as expected.

I see Wieskamp as an odd choice if they're keeping Drmic and intend to re-sign Doyle, perhaps Doyle is out?

There is a MU rumour Zodiac but surely not.

Now that wouldn't surprise me United have made a habit over the years of poaching imports from other teams. I hope it doesn't happen for the JJ's sake but if it does at least he's staying in Australia and should be close to citizenship after next season.

Roth did bemoan the lack of shooters to take the pressure off his ball handlers this season. Loses a lot of ball handling as well if Doyle goes. Still think it is more likely that Doyle plays more of a Trey Kell role rotating with MacDonald which is what they were doing for a large part of 2014 when JC was not playing a lot of minutes due to form or their defensive structures.

I think, barring signing gun locals in any of these spots, they need an import 1-2, 2-3 and 4-5. I would have Doyle as the 2-3, get another playmaker, shotmaker as the 1-2 and then that 4-5 spot is someone who can play alongside Magnay but also cover for him when injuries hit.

Free agency hasn't even started yet, how are we already at "Doyle is signing with United (who are still playing!) and Tassie have signed Wieskamp to replace him"? That's wrestling-referee levels of looking the other way so as not to see rule infractions.

Wieskamp played on Wednesday, has he really negotiated a contract with another team for next season by Saturday?

Wieskamp played a bit four for SEM when their bigs got into foul trouble, McVeigh certainly wasn't the biggest four in comp and I’ll be honest wasn’t very good till Roth got hold of him, yes could chuck it up but Roth got him playing smart and made him into a reasonable defender. Maybe he sees similar for Wieskamp.

Didn't we have all those contracts announced on the first day of free agency last year?

And IF Doyle were to go to United, who would he be replacing?

I'm assuming Cameron is the most likely, as by now he will want to go somewhere with more playing time, money and responsibility?

Bit of naivety in here player agents talk to other teams in season folks! United could've already put the feelers out they're interested in Doyle and then bang day 1 of free agency the big shock Doyle signs with United. Not saying he's going but come on.

The JJ's were into Delly hard during his last season at the Cavs as they wanted him to be the face of their franchise only to be gazzumped by the massive offer he got from United.

I have no doubt in Sobey's last season at the Sixers when he demanded to play PG that the Bullets were already into him hard. Once the season finished bang Sobey signs a 3 year deal with the Bullets to be their new starting PG. At least Joey gave him a clip on the way out ;)

Wieskamp improved as the season went on but would hardly be a premium signing. He really should have been sacked, replacing the coach gave him a chance , they started playing better so saved him. But for a shooter he airballed a helluva lot of shots. And if he struggles again there's that guaranteed contract to be worried about.
Mind you Tassie did get Hummer as a replacement import. But is Wieskamp as good a screener as Hummer?

I'll feel like a fool if I don't ask- have I missed a joke on here about Hummer and setting screens, seems to be brought up everytime someone says his name?

So with Hummer officially let go could the rumoured joe wieskamp signing make sense as the third import if they nail their 2nd import? He can play 2-4 and in the right system should shoot better than 31% from 3pt land next season. The way he plays could mean he is more a steindl replacement than anything. He runs off screens to get open shots, has good length which could help him be an under rated defender in roths system and doesnt seem to sulk if benched. If cheap enough might be worth a shot as he knows the league and how its reffed. If the bannan signing does happen wieskamp should be the sixth or seventh man and could do quite well against the bench units of other teams. If both of these moves prove to be true they still need help at 5 spot and a really good 1-2 to backup macca and doyle

I'm not sure why everyone thinks Wieskamp is on the budget side, he has fairly good resume.

Not sure he would be cheap either Dunkman but the JJs may not have to worry so much about that anymore if their spend limit has been increased by the new owners.

Reported in Hobart Mercury today that JJs not making any decisions on JC or Doyle till the local roster sports are filled. Think Roth already said that could be as late as May which would certainly give other teams a look in during free agency.

W14, I think we will have to cop the Hummer jokes/ jibes for a while yet. NB: Have heard free throw air balls now being called a hummer.

Local content will also be intriguing.

Seany Mac, Magnay, Woodhill, Deng, Drmic signed up.

Stoddardt had a good run at towards the end of the season, Brown is talented but not getting minutes. Stoddardt told he needs to continue to prove himself at NBL1 level.

Still need coverage at all spots - coverage for Magnay, and the 4 spot the obvious ones. Talk of Bannan is welcome.

Roth says every year local spots get sorted first, sure there is work happening with imports as well. Personally find this time of year really interesting - ?s also on Te Rangi and Fab coming back.....they are solid but not ones who dominate

Very different to 2023 free agency when Doyle was priority number one. Makes you think there is still a high level local guard target in free agency.

Surely the JJs don't take a broom through all their imports though.

There may also be a nuance here now in that the 3rd import is not being spoken of in the same way as Doyle and Crawford. Maybe that 3rd import spot does get filled early in free agency.

JJs seem to like Thursdays and Fridays for their roster announcements so maybe some more news later this week.

The out of contract locals of course will be in the same boat as Doyle and Crawford if we get to week one of free agency and still nothing on Terangi or Fab by then.

Wieskamp had very good college career leading to him getting drafted, but then bounced around the g league. I believe this season was his first as an import and his stats weren't very good. So if he comes back I predict it wouldn't be for big money based on his production. Could well have been because of the instability at the start of season, but if as mentioned above he's predicted to be the 7th player his salary wouldn't be huge. And if his shot is still off is harder to cut than a new import to the league.
As for Hummer, early on despite it being obvious he was terrible, he had his supporters, but best attribute they could say was he set really good screens.

Looks like Magnay has signed in Turkey......hoping he stays injury free.

JJs need a back up at the 4 / 5

Sense clubs waiting till end of finals re imports, key signings. Strong possibility Clark, Delly and Lee available.
MU are fairly well serviced in the back court now with a quality young core and CG, not enough room for Delly and Clark

Dash Daniels incoming too, I never believed the talk MU intend to re-sign Delly.

Fyi, NBL app story quoting Olgun Uluc socials that Josh Bannan has declined his player option with the Bullets and he understands there is strong mutual interest with JJs.

Also, Jarrad Weeks has re-signed as an assistant coach for 2 more seasons (2026 and 2027).

Harry froling put up 32 points 12 rebounds in his first nznbl game he will definitely be looked at buy some nbl clubs

Hopefully not by the Sixers again! Harry showed a lot of potential in his rookie season but came back lazy and out of shape for his second season so we cut bait with him.

The talk was after his rookie season he and his agent at the time Shane Heal thought he had NBA potential so they wanted the Sixers to release him from his contract so he could play the next season in the G-League. The owner GK refused to do so which is probably why Harry came back the next season overweight and played with a poor attitude.

Per Olgun Ulucs free agency thread but posted by someone else:

" Joe Wieskamp won't be pursuing any off-season work and will remain in the U.S to work on his game, there is also a 99% chance he won't be returning to the NBL next season based on a recent interview he did. "

So, looks like there is nothing to the JJs rumour previously discussed on this thread.

Wieskamp is no loss, very mediocre import and not playing anywhere else right now is telling, the market agrees.

Le Afaf's 2nd year option not taken buy Sydney wouldn’t mind him at the jack jumpers would be reasonably cheap plays decent defence can shoot be handy off the bench was under used buy goorj

Can't see Tassie being the right environment for him to get his confidence back after that shocking season with Sydney.

I could see him in either Cairns or back at NZB

A defensive guard that can shoot sounds like a Roth type of player to me , also good friends with mika vukona

I don't know why, but Izzy couldn't shoot for shit last season. IIRC 25% FG and made himself unplayable despite his defence. I'd wager he finds his shot again though and Tassie or Cairns would be the places to do it.

If the last roster spot is a decision between Terangi, Izzy and Kenyon, who does Roth take? Have been told Roth and Kenyon looked to be on better terms again after the last game against SEM. Would be very tempting to bring him back although they don't need to worry about guarding Cotton any more. Also, if they get Reyne Smith surely he will be the shooter pinch hitting of the bench. Izzy would be handy as that extra experienced ball handler though if they don’t bring back JC.

A signing I personally would like to see is Anticevich in Tassie

Maybe they can go after Ian Clark since he's on similar money to what Sword was according to some. Might even be cheaper than Le'Afa.
Then they need an import that can set really good screens like Hummer.

The mention of Hummer still cracks me up and how good his agent must have been to get him that contract. When he couldn't hit the ring at free throw practice when he first arrived should have sent off the alarm bells. And then he would hold up the pre-game free throw/dunk drill because he just couldn’t make a shot. Roth didn’t even play him in that final game against MU which the JJs somehow lost after dominating for 3 quarters and which ultimately meant they missed the post season. Can’t blame him for the easy put backs and lay ups that were missed that game. He did stop Prather one game and set those legendary screens. He was just way past his prime when all is said and done. The irony is that Sword would have been very handy when MacDonald went down inured again.