Jeremy Cameron's trade to Geelong was finalised minutes before the deadline.Credit:Getty Images
It not only gives the Giants the chance to replenish their talent pool for Cameron - who they signed as a 17-year-old under rules designed to give the club priority access to young talent,when the club was established - but weakens the Cats,who were hoping to set a foundation for the future by using three top 20 picks in this year's draft.
The Cats,however,were satisfied with the deal as they will be able to package the future second round picks in what shapes as a strong 2021 draft.
Loading
The landing of Cameron - who not only returned to be close to family but because he thought he could develop further playing alongside Coleman medallist Tom Hawkins - makes the Cats one of the favourites for the 2021 flag. Geelong fell just short this season when they lost the grand final to Richmond after leading at half-time.
He joins the club alongside North Melbourne veteran Shaun Higgins and Hawthorn's triple premiership wingman Isaac Smith.
The Giants made their demands for Cameron,27,clear to Geelong at the start of trade period,when they penned a formal letter to the club,with midfielder Brandan Parfitt and key forward Esava Ratugolea of interest to Greater Western Sydney.
However,both players rejected the Giants'polite enquiries to join their club,forcing the Cats and the Giants to deal only in draft picks,with Greater Western Sydney seeking three first round draft picks from Geelong,basing their assessment on his value on what West Coast paid to recruit former Cat Tim Kelly.