Hawthorn Hawks seal deal for 'General' Jonathon Patton in GWS trade
Former AFL No.1 draft pick Jonathon Patton has been traded to Hawthorn.
On Tuesday, GWS confirmed Patton had been traded for a future fourth-round draft pick (tied to Melbourne's ladder position).
Patton was the first selection in the 2011 AFL draft but has had his career cruelled by ACL injuries, with his third knee reconstruction ruling him out all of the entire 2019 season.
"We are really excited about the versatility he brings to our forward line, and at just 26 years of age we feel like he still has his best footy ahead of him," Hawthorn general manager of football Graham Wright said.
"Jon's obviously had some injury issues in the past but he's been in full training at the Giants for the back half of season 2019; he'll be ready to begin pre-season training once our group come back after the break."
Patton has endured a series of knee injuries since being drafted first overall in the 2011 Draft AAP
Patton played 89 games for the Giants and kicked 130 goals, including a career-high 45 in 2017.
"We wish Jon all the best," Giants general manager of football Wayne Campbell said.
"Jon has been part of building the club to where we are today and we thank him for his contribution over the past eight years.
"We hope a fresh start at the Hawks helps Jon return to his best on the football field."
