In summation...
Sam Naismith's season was again interrupted by injury but the big man got himself fit to play a significant role in the Sydney Swans' resurgence from 0-6 to finals calculations.
The ruckman played 15 games, the bulk after Round 12, after suffering from hip and knee issues in sporadic periods this season.
While he doesn't rack up high disposal numbers, it's his tap work that's most valued by the coaching staff, with the 25-year-old from Gunnendah averaging 28 hitouts a game in 2017.
Up against Callum Sinclair and Kurt Tippett in a ongoing battle for the number one ruck spot, Naismith continues to develop his game and, with another pre-season under his belt and his body right, will look for bigger and better things next season.
What the numbers say...
Games: 15
Kicks: 52
H’balls: 81
Disposals: 133
Hitouts: 419
Clearances: 32
Marks: 25
Tackles: 40
Inside 50s: 15
AFL Fantasy: 765 (58.8 average)
Supercoach: 860 (66.2 average)
Best performance...
Round 17 v GWS at Spotless Stadium
Against cross-town rivals, the Giants, Naismith amassed 45 hitouts against pair Shane Mumford and Rory Lobbe to be the most dominant ruckman on the ground. He also earned four clearances, nine disposals (seven contested) and did the little things (five 'one per centers') to help pave the way for teammates.
What they said...
"He's important in terms of getting his hands to the ball first and his speed around the ground. We expect him to really compete hard against what's a really good ruck setup."
- John Longmire for Team Selection ahead of the Elimination Final against Essendon.
In pictures...
Naismith in full flight against Port Adelaide's Paddy Ryder in Round 1.
Naismith sported an interesting haircut last season.
Naismith soars above Essendon's Tom Bellchambers.
