New North Melbourne player Nick Blakey has apologised for the events that led to his Sydney exit after the two clubs agreed to a blockbuster trade.
On the penultimate day of the trade period, the Swans offloaded Blakey, draft pick No.52 and their 2028 second-round selection in exchange for a glut of picks.
WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Nick Blakey traded to North Melbourne after Pullman scandal
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The Kangaroos shipped picks No.6 and No.47, a 2027 second-round pick, a 2028 first-round pick and a 2028 second-round pick to get the deal done on Tuesday.
Blakey, one of five Sydney players embroiled in the Pullman Hotel scandal, issued a statement via the Kangaroos.
He was suspended for the final round of the season and the finals series, while a police investigation remains ongoing.
“I want to say that I’m sorry for the events that led up to my exit from Sydney,” Blakey said.
“I know I have to win back the trust of the broader community, football and otherwise.
“Now I have the opportunity to move forward and I want to thank North Melbourne for helping me find a fresh start.
“I’m grateful I have landed at a place that has such deep connections to me and my family.
“There is so much potential in this group and I’m looking forward to getting to work to help take North Melbourne forward.”
Blakey follows in the footsteps of father John, who played 224 of his 359-game career at North Melbourne.
The Swans were pleased with the trade and wished Blakey well.
“This trade with North has significantly improved our draft hand,” list boss Chris Keane said.
“Having a pick inside the top 10 is extremely valuable and not something we have had for a number of years, so we will get to work on landing the best player available.
“We thank Nick for his contribution to our football club since being drafted in 2018 and he leaves our club as a life member having played over 150 games.
“On behalf of the club I wish Nick all the very best as he continues his career at the Kangaroos.”
Blakey, who joined the Swans from the academy, departs the club after 173 games in eight seasons, with his best coming in 2024 when he was an All-Australian.
