As the AFL trade rumour mill begins to heat up, Hawthorn midfielder Cam Mackenzie has found himself at the centre of growing speculation. The young gun, who showed significant promise early in the season, is now being linked to a potential move away from the Hawks. AFL commentator and former Port Adelaide midfielder Kane Cornes has weighed in, suggesting that clubs like Collingwood and Geelong should be keeping a close eye on Mackenzie’s situation.
Cornes’ comments come on the back of a turbulent few weeks for the 20-year-old midfielder. After being subbed out of Hawthorn’s disappointing loss to Fremantle last weekend, questions have emerged about Mackenzie’s role within Sam Mitchell’s developing squad. He managed just eight disposals before being taken out of the match, prompting concerns that he may be growing frustrated with his place in the pecking order.
A Promising Start Derailed
Cam Mackenzie entered the 2024 season with plenty of expectation. Drafted with pick No. 7 in the 2022 AFL Draft, the former Sandringham Dragon was viewed as one of the key building blocks of Hawthorn’s future midfield. Early in the year, he looked like he was ready to deliver on that potential. In Round 3 against the GWS Giants, Mackenzie recorded a career-best 30 disposals and seemed to have secured a permanent spot in the Hawks’ AFL side.
He played the first seven games of the season and appeared to be finding consistency in his performances. However, a broken hand sidelined him, halting his momentum. After returning from injury, Mackenzie was sent back to the VFL for three weeks to regain form. While he has since made his way back into the AFL team over the past three rounds, he hasn’t quite recaptured his early-season spark.
His recent subbing against Fremantle, particularly after a quiet showing, has triggered rumours that he may be disillusioned with his current role at Hawthorn. Though the club has remained tight-lipped, Cornes believes clubs should be ready to pounce if Mackenzie decides to seek a fresh start elsewhere.
A Potential Fit for Collingwood or Geelong?
Cornes pointed to two clubs in particular — Collingwood and Geelong — as ideal destinations for the young midfielder should he consider a move. Both clubs have strong development systems, a history of getting the best out of young talent, and a need to continue refreshing their midfield depth.
For Collingwood, who are always keen on securing emerging talent to maintain their premiership window, Mackenzie could offer another layer of versatility and long-term upside. The Magpies have shown a knack for identifying players looking for greater opportunity and helping them flourish in new roles.
Geelong, on the other hand, is in the midst of balancing a blend of experience and youth. With their legendary core slowly transitioning toward retirement, the Cats are on the lookout for fresh midfield talent who can step up in the coming seasons. Mackenzie could potentially thrive in their system, with the added benefit of working alongside seasoned veterans.
What Lies Ahead?
While it’s far from confirmed that Cam Mackenzie wants out of Hawthorn, the signs of dissatisfaction are there — a frustrating injury, time in the VFL, and being subbed out in a big game. For a player who showed so much promise early in the year, it’s understandable that frustration might be creeping in.
Hawthorn will be keen to retain Mackenzie and continue developing him as a key part of their rebuild. But in today’s AFL, talent mobility is high, and young players are increasingly aware of their value and potential opportunities elsewhere.
Whether the Hawks can convince him to stay the course remains to be seen. In the meantime, clubs like Collingwood and Geelong would be wise to monitor the situation closely — because if Mackenzie becomes available, he won’t stay on the market for long.