Bailey Smith Lifts Geelong Standards Amid Career-Best AFL Form

Geelong assistant coach Nathan Buckley has delivered a strong endorsement of Bailey Smith, praising the midfielder's professionalism and work ethic during what has become the highest-rated stretch of his AFL career.

Smith produced a standout 34-disposal, two-goal performance in Geelong's 41-point victory over Brisbane last Thursday, continuing a run of form that has seen him rated as the competition's second-best player since Round 3, behind only Sydney's Isaac Heeney.

For the season, Smith ranks eighth overall in player ratings, with his 17.58 average rating points exceeding his output from last year, when he earned All-Australian selection for the first time.

Buckley Praises Professionalism and Determination

Buckley, the former Collingwood captain now serving as Chris Scott's assistant, was quick to deflect attention from Smith's off-field profile, instead focusing on his football credentials.