The Kangaroos don't have a first-round pick in 2025 - here's why

Tom Naghten

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The Kangaroos don't have a first-round pick in 2025 - here's why image

Getty Images/SN

Despite finishing 16th in 2025, North Melbourne don't have a first-round pick in this year's national draft.

For a club which has finished in the bottom three for the past six years, it's hardly a strong position to be in heading into another important off-season.

So, how did they get here?

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North Melbourne traded away 2025 first-round pick

Towards the end of relatively pedestrian opening night of the 2024 draft, the Roos shook things up a bit, making a play for versatile Murray Bushrangers tall Matt Whitlock.

Having used their first-round pick on Finn O'Sullivan at number two, North did a deal with Richmond at pick 27, trading away their 2025 first-rounder in order to grab Whitlock.

Coming back the other way, the Kangas got the Tigers' 2025 second-round selection.

It was always going to be a big play from North.

For starters, they would have been hoping for a surge up the ladder in 2025, and while they did climb slightly from 17th, their decision now means the first four selections in the draft will be: West Coast, West Coast (Oscar Allen compensation), Richmond, Richmond (tied to North Melbourne).

Unless they make a trade before November 19, the Kangaroos first pick in this year's isn't until 25, which is likely to drop further when bids are matched on academy and father-son selections.

That being said, it could yet prove a master stroke.

The jury is still out on Whitlock - he played two senior games this year, being subbed out in his debut and starting in the vest in the other, for a total of 12 touches and a goal.

In trading away their first pick this year, North's list managers were also likely working on the belief that this year's draft isn't a strong one.

Again, it's too early to make a call either way there.

Regardless, the Roos are living dangerously, with free agent Charlie Spargo their only addition prior to the draft this off-season.

Tom Naghten

Tom Naghten is a senior editor at The Sporting News Australia where he's been part of the team since 2017. He predominantly covers boxing and MMA. In his spare time, he likes to watch Robbie Ahmat's goal against the Kangaroos at the SCG in 2000.