How side deals, mega bucks and a rare breakout of honest and rational negotiating ruled trade period

It might not play out on the ground in 2027, but Hawthorn and the Western Bulldogs were the finalists that gained the most ground during a trade period that was marked by an outbreak of honesty and rational negotiations. Zach Merrett, whose stranding at Tullamarine was the story of last year’s exchanges, was granted his wish to play under Sam Mitchell. Whereas Merrett’s failed escape in 2025 was a game of chicken between the Hawks and Bombers in which no one won, this time the deal was reached more than a week before the deadline and both clubs emerged as…