James Hird has expressed strong reservations about the proposed nine-year contract option for Harley Reid, labelling it "a waste of time" amidst discussions surrounding the potential for Reid to become the first AFL player valued at $2 million. On a recent episode of Footy Classified, it was disclosed that Reid’s management presented a two-year contract offer to the West Coast Eagles, including this extended option. However, the Eagles have yet to accept the proposal.
Reid’s management is keen to avoid protracted negotiations as he approaches the final year of his current contract, indicating they would prefer a swift extension or a trade if no agreement can be reached. Hird comments on the financial implications of such a contract, suggesting the amount is excessive while recognising the impact of current market dynamics on player salaries.
Hird further critiques the one-sided nature of the contract option, arguing it could create instability within the team. He believes that if the club feels uncertain about retaining Reid long-term, extending him would not be beneficial, particularly while they are in a rebuilding phase.
Rory Sloane also weighed in, cautioning against the risks involved with investing heavily in a younger player like Reid, suggesting alternative strategies such as trading him for draft picks to bolster the team more effectively.
Hird reiterated his stance, labelling the long-term option "short-sighted" and emphasising the need for the club to build a team with players committed for the long haul. By allowing a player to remain under a potentially temporary contract, he argues, the club might hinder its long-term strategy for improvement and success.
In summary, both Hird and Sloane advocate for a more strategic approach to Reid’s contract situation, warning that an overly ambitious financial commitment to a player whose future is uncertain may jeopardise the club’s future planning and performance.