Melbourne Storm legend Billy Slater has praised the club’s decision to re-sign Jahrome Hughes, extending his contract until 2030, indicating a focused commitment to immediate success rather than solely looking to the future. This contract extension raises questions regarding the future of up-and-coming player Jonah Pezet, who will now become a free agent.
On his podcast, Slater discussed how some clubs may overly concentrate on future prospects, potentially jeopardising current performance. He emphasised the importance of securing key players like Hughes, pointing out that standout talents are not easily acquired. “You can’t just pick up a Jahrome Hughes off the shelf,” he said, highlighting the rarity and value of such players.
For Slater, a significant benefit of Hughes’ ongoing commitment is the player’s eagerness to remain with the Storm, which echoes the situation with Reece Walsh, who chose to stay with the Broncos in 2024. Slater noted, “When a player wants to be part of your club, it’s a positive indicator for the future.”
Moreover, Slater believes that younger players will be attracted to the Storm’s environment, benefiting from the presence of established stars like Cameron Munster, Ryan Papenhuyzen, and Harry Grant. He recalled how Grant thrived under the mentorship of Cameron Smith, demonstrating the value of learning from experienced players.
Slater expressed that a balance is essential when managing a team’s future and immediate needs. He cautioned against obsessively planning for the long haul at the expense of present performance, warning that clubs can lose sight of current opportunities while focusing too much on what lies ahead. “You can end up without both the now and the future,” he said.
The re-signing of Hughes reflects the Storm’s adept management of their salary cap, a strategy that has allowed them to maintain a strong squad by securing essential players. However, the club faces upcoming contract negotiations with other pivotal spine players. Cameron Munster, currently contracted until 2027, may attract interest from a potential new franchise in Perth, while Harry Grant and Ryan Papenhuyzen are both under contract until 2026, with the latter reportedly being courted by R360.
In conclusion, as the Storm navigates the challenges of player contracts and team dynamics, Slater firmly advocates for a balanced approach that values both immediate results and future potential.