I'm not arguing whether Sydney need the academy to compete or not. Arguing the academy hasn't played a big role in them making a grand final is simply not true though.
Gulden could have been matched earlier but knowing the Swans were going to match whatever bid, clubs often don't bother even bidding. Just look at Brandon Walker who was touted around pick 20 pre-draft and then wasn't touched until late. It worked fantastically for us and it worked fantastically for Sydney.
Braeden Campbell was my favourite player in his draft year and would still be my No1 pick on exposed form over that draft's first 2 seasons. He was a regular in their best 22 for the first half of this season providing great rebound off half back through a couple of injuries before the injuries took their toll and he's been on the fringes. He was sub last week and is every chance to be playing on the weekend in the GF, the kid is a gun.
5 big talents added in without the required draft picks is massive. Even easier for Sydney, they're able to add players like Logan McDonald because bids have come just after their first draft picks, effectively giving them an extra boost on talent. Those additional high draft picks due to the academy are massive in acquiring high end talent.
