The delisted free agent has played just the three matches, but is already making a noticeable impression as a small-forward.
While Lindsay Thomas regularly attracts the best opposition small defender, Nahas' introduction provides a one-two punch of forward pressure at ground level.
A combination of its kind hasn't been seen since Thomas combined so well with Matt Campbell early in their careers.
“We sort of play similar styles so I feel like I know where Lindsay’s going to be running,” Nahas told NMFC.com.au.
“It’s pretty much my job to do anything I can to complement any of the forwards. I really enjoy playing with Lindsay and it’s a lot of fun.”
In three outings, Nahas has laid 15 tackles. His average of five a game ranks second among all Kangaroos' players, and with picture-perfect technique like this, he’ll have plenty more opportunities to increase that number.
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For Nahas, the task sounds simply, but minus a concerted effort, the whole team structure can be impacted.
“It’s just about defensive pressure,” he stated.
“I’ve got to be exceptional in that area and set my game around that. They (coaching staff) told me that they see a role with my type of player – not necessarily me – but my type of player. Whether I was able to fill it was up to me and I’ve come in with the mindset to do everything I can defensively to help the side win.”
Such is his application, racking up disposals has little importance.
“To be honest I don’t go into the game thinking about getting too many touches. If I can create goals by tackling and all that, that’s pretty much all I focus on. If the rest comes, then the rest comes.”
It all started for Nahas in the rain against Sydney in Round 4. The tough conditions paved the way for a debut, albeit as a late inclusion.
North’s forward pressure was a feature that afternoon, with its opponents registering an abnormally high 37 turnovers in the defensive zone.
The number 28 played a big part in giving his team the ascendency, particularly in the first term.
“I didn’t know I was playing until an hour and a half before the game but it’s no different preparation to normal,” Nahas added.
“I flew up with the team; I did everything that the players that were playing were doing. The preparation was exactly the same but the mind was just a little unsure. You still have to tick every box though just on the off chance you get the call up.
“It was good just to get there, suit up and you’re playing, rather than thinking about it all week.”
Despite a whirlwind start, there has been challenges. Substituted out of both the Sydney and Fremantle wins, some raised doubts over Nahas' fitness.
But the problem stemmed deeper.
“I had a bit of nerve damage which just didn’t allow my muscles to fire properly. We’re on top of that now. Steve Saunders (Director of Medical Services) has worked his magic on it and I can get through the full games now.
“A lot of it is through dry needling and physio every day. The physios have done everything to get me up and they’ve been sensational.”
Six months into life at his second AFL club, Nahas is feeling right at home.
“I’m pretty good mates with Azza (Aaron Edwards) and he told me I was going to have a ball and that all the boys were going to be fantastic.He worded me up and said I was really going to enjoy my time and he’s been spot on.
“It was very easy to settle in here. All the coaches are very approachable which makes it so much easier. I’m understanding the way the side wants to play.”
