Melbourne coach Steven King has conceded the club is bracing for the new Tasmania AFL side to target its players, acknowledging the Demons are effectively resigned to losing talent to the expansion team.
King's admission signals a pragmatic acceptance from the Melbourne camp that Tasmania's entry into the competition will have a direct impact on their list, with the new club expected to pursue established AFL players as it assembles its inaugural squad.
The Demons join a number of existing clubs facing the reality of the expansion process, which gives Tasmania access to a pool of AFL-listed players. King's candid acknowledgement reflects the broader challenge facing clubs as the league's newest franchise takes shape.
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