AFTER playing just 20 games since being drafted by Port Adelaide in 2009, John Butcher's career seems to be at the crossroads.
But Power coach Ken Hinkley certainly hasn't lost faith in the big forward, who burst onto the scene by kicking six goals in his second AFL appearance late in the 2011 season.
"He's a fascinating one, because everyone wants to talk about John," Hinkley told AFL.com.au.
"He's that big power forward that we need to make our side probably a little bit stronger."
Butcher's strong marking and wonky kicking have the capacity to cause delight and despair in equal measure.
That was the case in Port's second NAB Challenge match against Essendon at Etihad Stadium on Tuesday night.
Butcher earned Bronx cheers from Bombers fans when he sprayed his first shot at goal out on the full.
But he finished the night with seven possessions and four marks, and even slotted a goal from 50m during the second half.
"His kicks are a little bit off and on at times, and we know that," Hinkley said.
"I've said that publicly that John's kick has that kink in it, and we just deal with it.
"As long as he can deal with that pressure – and that's the hardest thing, I reckon, dealing with that pressure – he's OK.
"He adds a lot to our football side when he's up and going. He's never been fit. That's the key ingredient for John. He's always battled with his body a bit.
"If he can get that fit, and we think he's got to a reasonably good shape at this point of the season, we're hopeful he can have a good year."
Port is hoping Butcher and fellow big men Jay Schulz and Justin Westhoff can form a potent triumvirate in attack this season.
Westhoff was brilliant against the Bombers, booting five goals and taking nine marks, while Schulz looked in good touch before he suffered an ankle injury that has him in doubt for round one.
"We know they're different individuals," Hinkley said. "John is the big pack-marker and Schulzy does a lot of on-the-lead stuff.
"Westy can go everywhere and anywhere. He can get it on the ground, he can get it in the air. He's a really difficult match-up at 200cms."
