In the gun: Can explosive Lion have 'the game'?

Jaiden Sciberras • April 26th, 2026 12:57 pm

David King has put one of the reigning premiers’ star players in the gun ahead of the Lions’ clash with Adelaide.

A huge game between two finals contenders, both sides have faced stuttered starts to the AFL season, winning just three of their first six games to sit on the outer of the 10.

Brisbane – entering off the back of a surprising two-point loss to Melbourne – play hosts in a hugely important game, and King has his sights set on the club’s barometer.

“It hurts me to put one of our own in the gun,” King told SEN Fireball.

“I think Cam Rayner needs a game. I think Cam needs a game.

“He had an opportunity last week to win them the match, he didn’t take it, and I just think he’s been a bit off this year.

“He’s kicked the seven goals; he’s missed a few opportunities in front of goal. He hasn’t had ‘the game’ yet.

“I feel like they’ve been a bit clunky without his influence. I think from a Brisbane Lions point of view, you want to see them correct and sharpen and get their game rolling.

“They need those guys – who are elite talent. Cam Rayner is an elite player.”

“I saw him break eight tackles in that final against Gold Coast last year, and whew, it was the most thrilling individual performance I saw last year,” Kane Cornes added.

King: “He’s in there for me.”

Cornes: “I think that’s fair. I’d love an 18 possession, three goals, eight score involvements game from him.”

King: “He’s spending a lot of time forward isn’t he. I want a four or fiver. That’s what I want.”

The contest kicks off at 3:15pm AEDT at the Gabba.