Kane Cornes has likened Zach Merrett potentially joining Hawthorn to Kevin Durant’s move to the Golden State Warriors, saying he wouldn’t have earned the premiership, should they win it.
The Essendon captain’s public reasoning for wanting to move to the Hawks is a desire to chase individual success.
But would a premiership with the Hawks in 2026 scratch that itch? Cornes certainly doesn’t think so
Zach Merrett of the Bombers is congratulated on his 250th game. Getty
“Would you look at it as a hard earned title? I wouldn’t,” Cornes told AFL Trade Radio.
“I would look at Dylan Moore and James Sicily and say geez they did the hard yards.
“He wants it … I’m calling it cheap success. Success he hasn’t earned.
“Kevin Durant style success. Joining Steph Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green for a cheap ring.”
The Hawks were premiership favourites at stages throughout the 2025 season and if they add Merrett, could start 2026 as premiership favourites.
Kevin Durant on the Warriors. Getty