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North Melbourne has used its trade with Melbourne for Ben Brown to bring in two exciting forwards from Collingwood in Jaidyn Stephenson and Atu Bosenavulagi.
The Kangaroos also acquired pick 39 from the Pies in exchange for pick 26, 33 and 70.
Stephenson, an explosive forward and rising star, averaged 12.3 disposals, 1.5 goals and 2.9 tackles in his debut year and went on to win the Rising Star Award. He received his nomination after a standout performance in Round 4 when he kicked five goals against the Adelaide Crows.
Stephenson has also featured in Collingwood’s finals series over the past three years, including the 2018 Grand Final, bringing valuable experience across to the Kangaroos.
North list manager Glenn Luff said Stephenson was an exciting and valuable addition.
“Jaidyn came into the competition and had an immediate impact and that’s a tough thing to do,” Luff said.
“Jaidyn has an explosive and electrifying style of game. He can be so dangerous in the forward 50 but he also can also impact through the midfield which is really important to us.
“He fits into what we’re building here at Arden St and will add flare to our game.
“We firmly believe he will grow even more under our program and be a really important player for us into the future.”
Meanwhile, 20-year-old Bosenavulagi will bring tackling pressure and power to the Roos’ line-up.
“Atu’s speed and power will be beneficial to us in the front half of the ground,” Luff said.
“He comes from a rugby background so he is tough at the ball and possesses great tackling pressure.
“We see a role for Atu in our forward line and believe his best footy is ahead of him.”
