Game of Thrones season preview
by Bruce McAvaney
It’s been almost ten months since that memorable grand final. Since then we’ve been salivating at the prospect of this opening round. Winter is coming, so let’s take a look at the teams and their prospects for the 2015 Game of Thrones season.
Winterfell Direwolves
The once premiership contenders have been decimated by injuries, mainly of the stabbing variety. Lost their heads at key moments. Wasted a strong home ground advantage and currently looking for a new home. Evasive skills of some their young players could prove valuable but will be some seasons before they get back to their best.
King’s Landing Kingslayers
Key losses and team disunity last season led to new leadership for 2015. Some think King Tommen is too young to lead but Margery promises to make a man of him. Jamie Lannister is still formidable but isn’t the player he used to be. Need some players to lend him a hand. Consistent MVP, Tyrion Lannister, is trying his luck as free agent. Best recruit: Ser Pounce
Mereen Dragons
Could this finally be Dany’s season? She’s drafted well. Powerful up front with three huge dragons: Drogon, Tippett and Buddy. Very intimidating as long as they stick to the gameplan. Committed team that would put their balls on their line, if they had any. Crucified some opposition last season, but will have to learn to win on the road, and across the Narrow Sea, if they’re to top the standings. Tough to see any weaknesses. Biggest danger could be sexy distraction with that Daario/Fabio guy wandering around.
Baratheon Fire
Last season’s northern derby between the Castle Black Crows and the Beyond- the-Wall Wildings looked like it could finish a few careers, but some back room deals brought about an unlikely merger. It could prove decisive for the team now led by Stannis Baratheon. Coached by Melissandre, “the Red Woman”, he suddenly looks like championship material. There’s fire in their bellies, and maybe some smoke babies too. Key defender Jon Snow doesn’t know much but he is delicious. Snow copped an injury last season, three arrows in the back, but fought back for a big late season win over the Giants. Braavos has bankrolled Stannis’s team, but for how long? Biggest threat: The salary cap.
Dorne Sandsnakes
A new team with a lot to play for this year. They’re already out for revenge, so they’ll fit right into this league. What little we’ve seen in the off season has been impressive; They could be deadly, or sexy, but if last season’s MVP, Inigo Montoya, was anything to go by they’ll probably they’ll be deadly sexy. At least until they get their heads popped like grapes.
Dreadnaught Flayers
Won few fans last year with their style of play and insidious tactics. Had an upset win over the Direwolves. Their X-factor, Ramsay Bolton, could have been suspended for rough conduct but wasn’t reported by the umpires. Capable of anything and could surprise a few more teams this season.
Iron Islands Raiders
Set for a delicious showdown with the Flayers at some point. But really, who knows when this mob will show up?
White Walkers
Always very active in recruiting. Have resurrected more careers than GWS. Last year looked to draft some more rookies. On the outside can threaten the best. Must stop going to pieces when about to tackle Sam Tarly. Will prove a stronger unit in the chilly latter part of the season.
