Kysaiah Pickett's new monster contract with Melbourne comes with risk, according to Melbourne great Gary Lyon.
“It does seem long to me, I’ve got no problem with the money by the way, he is a $1.2 million player in this environment,” Lyon told SEN Breakfast.
“The nine years does seem a long, long time, but that’s what has to happen these days if you’re going to get these deals done.”
Melbourne Demons star Kysaiah Pickett has signed a seven-year extension at the Demons, ending speculation he may request a trade.
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Pickett had two years left on his current contract, but his seven-year extension means he will stay at the club until the end of 2034.
The deal is believed to be worth around $12 million across the nine years he has left at the club, and makes him the longest player currently under contract in the AFL.
There were talks that Pickett may request a trade to his home state of Western Australia due to homesickness, with both Fremantle and West Coast Eagles interested.
Pickett explained that he loves the club and is eager to see what the Demons could accomplish during his time there.
“We have shared some special memories over the past few years here, and I’m excited for what we can achieve next,” Pickett said.
“The club has shown so much care for me and my family, and I can’t thank them enough for their support. I would also like to thank the Demon fans for all the love.”
Pickett kicked three goals in the Demons' one-point defeat to the Pies on Monday and will play against Port Adelaide on Sunday.
Port Adelaide and Melbourne games have been close in recent times, with the last three games being decided by a goal or less.