In: Luke Dahlhaus, Nathan Kreuger, Gary Rohan, picks 59, 70

Out: Lincoln McCarthy, George Horlin-Smith, Jackson Thurlow, picks 54, 57

Win: More depth added to a quality, but light, midfield

Lose: A good clubman in George Horlin-Smith

2018 draft picks: 12, 50, 59, 60, 70, 87

What couldn’t they get done? Pushed, begged and pleaded for a future first-round pick for Tim Kelly but were unable to get the Eagles talking.Had offered Lincoln McCarthy a one-year contract but weren't too fazed to gift him a fresh start at the Lions. Still had a toe in the water for Saints gun Jack Steven but were told on multiple occasions it was never going to be entertained.

Verdict: Demanded the farm for Kelly, weren't offered it but ultimately retained one of the best first-year player in the competition. While the Cats will lose Kelly in 12 months' time, keeping him on a base salary while in the finals race will prove good business for 2019. Luke Dahlhaus cost nothing, and along with Gary Rohan, provides speed to a side that lacked serious forward pressure in 2018. Were able to hold onto pick 11, giving Stephen Wells only his second first-round draft pick in the past five seasons. - Mitch Cleary

Rating: 7/10