AFL Media's Nathan Schmook takes a look at the Tigers’ key learnings from the JLT Community series.

TWO THINGS WE LEARNED

1. Josh Caddy is the Tigers' new weapon 
Caddy had a strong 2017 after crossing from Geelong, but he has the look of a player ready to make a big step up this season. The premiership Tiger was a star in both JLT Community Series games, leading the Tigers for contested possessions (23) and booting four goals. His versatility allows Damien Hardwick to move him between the midfield and forward line seamlessly, even using the powerful 25-year-old off the back of the square.   

2. The small forward line is here to stay
While young tall Callum Moore provided a nice cameo against North Melbourne and should get an opportunity in 2018, the Tigers looked at their best with a small attack packed with pressure players. They added Kane Lambert (four goals) into the mix in the second pre-season game against the Kangaroos and will again rotate midfielders heavily, isolating Brownlow medallist Dustin Martin as a key tactic. Their ability to press up and force turnovers set the benchmark in the JLT Series.

STILL A MYSTERY

Daniel Rioli's replacement for round one
Small forward Shai Bolton is the clear frontrunner, but not a lock for the season opener against Carlton. Hardwick said the Tigers would spend the next week considering whether he had done enough, with defensive pressure a key criteria in his selection. The alternative is prized draftee Jack Higgins, who gave the match committee something to think about with an impressive performance in a VFL practice match. Sam Lloyd is also an option after a strong pre-season, with the ability to join the midfield-forward rotation.