Port Adelaide experienced a peculiar turn of events in the recent AFL season. Despite finishing in the top four and securing a contract extension for coach Ken Hinkley, the team faltered in the finals, bowing out in straight sets. While facing formidable opponents like Brisbane and a relentless force in the finals heightened the challenge, the noticeable decline over the second half of the season prompted the club to address their issues aggressively during the trade period. The acquisitions of Esava Ratugolea, Brandon Zerk-Thatcher, Ivan Soldo, and Jordon Sweet are not expected to transform the team into a juggernaut, but they represent incremental upgrades for a side that won 17 games. Port Adelaide's aggressive trading strategy underscores a sense of urgency to capitalize on their current competitive window and secure a second AFL flag.

As Port Adelaide approaches the 2024 AFL season, the team is at a critical juncture following a peculiar sequence of events in the previous campaign. Despite securing a top-four finish, their finals performance raised questions about their ability to contend at the highest level. The aggressive approach in the trade period, bringing in players like Esava Ratugolea, Brandon Zerk-Thatcher, Ivan Soldo, and Jordon Sweet, signals the team's commitment to addressing vulnerabilities and making incremental upgrades. While these additions may not transform Port Adelaide into an immediate juggernaut, they are crucial for enhancing the squad's depth and competitiveness. The pressure is on coach Ken Hinkley to capitalize on the existing talent and navigate the challenges of an evolving list.

However, as Port Adelaide aims to make a push for the AFL Grand Final in 2024, the lingering concerns about potential list gaps in the future come into focus. The team's strategic emphasis on trading, coupled with limited reliance on the draft, raises questions about the sustainability of their success beyond the upcoming season. The season ahead represents a pivotal opportunity for Port Adelaide to demonstrate their readiness to contend for the ultimate prize, as they seek to balance immediate competitiveness with the long-term viability of their roster.