2025 Player Focus Thread #5: Patrick Lipinski and Ed Allan
Patrick Lipinski (1)
Contracted until: 2027
Overview
2024 was a return to form for Lipinski, who was down on output in 2023 once he returned from shoulder surgery. Lipinski played every game in 2024 and further cemented himself as one of McRae's favourites with versatility across half forward and through the midfield. For the first time in his career, he picked up three Brownlow votes in the R7 game against Port with 16 disposals and 4 goals. Lipinski finished the year with 5 Brownlow votes, a career-high.
Ed Allan (16)
Contracted until: 2026
Overview
The 2025 edition of Collingwood pre-season excitement. The hype is building around Allan who finally managed a debut in 2024 (albeit as sub) against his dad's old side. His debut was fine, but he didn't set the world on fire. He had to go back and bide his time in the VFL for a bit longer, which gave him the motivation to take his game to another level - as evidenced in R18 against Richmond with a 32 disposal, 2.1 score performance. Allan got another shot at AFL against Melbourne in the final game of 2024, and while he played against witches hats he was an impressive standout including kicking his first goal.
Discussion points
- Do you think Lipinski has a clearly defined role within the team? What makes him one of Fly's favourites?
- With Sidebottom nearing the end, do you think Lipinski could transition to being a permanent wingman?
- The former Collingwood #1, Jaidyn Stephenson announced his retirement late last year. What are your reflections on his career?
- How excited are you for Allan in 2025?
- What role do you see Allan projecting as? Inside mid, wing or otherwise?
- Besides Nick Daicos, who is a young Collingwood player you can recall having significant external hype who actually lived up to it?