AFL Rule Blocks Proposed Zak Butters Trade Between Clubs

A recent rule implemented by the AFL has prevented the proposed transfer of Zak Butters from Port Adelaide to the Western Bulldogs. This decision was communicated to the clubs on Thursday.

The rule prohibits clubs from covering a player's salary in a secondary trade if they have already engaged in a trade involving a free agent and a compensation pick. In this case, Butters was set to join the Bulldogs as a free agent, with Port Adelaide expected to receive Pick 5 in return.

Port Adelaide also intended to trade Todd Marshall to the Bulldogs while covering most of his salary. However, the new regulation disallows this arrangement. The clubs can still proceed with a trade once Port Adelaide receives the compensation pick, but it cannot include salary payments for any Bulldogs player. AFL General Manager Greg Swann clarified these stipulations in a memo sent to the clubs.