Lachlan Galvin’s Stunning Move to Bulldogs Raises Selection Questions and Finals Hopes
SYDNEY – May 26, 2025
The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs have sent shockwaves through the NRL world after securing the signature of rising star Lachlan Galvin. The 18-year-old playmaker’s surprise move from the Wests Tigers to the ladder-leading Bulldogs has sparked major intrigue, with many questioning how the teenager will fit into an already stacked roster.
Galvin, widely regarded as one of the NRL’s most promising young talents, has played most of his senior football at five-eighth — a position currently held by incumbent star Matt Burton. Add in Bailey Hayward, another promising No. 6, and the puzzle becomes even more complex.
Reports suggest the Bulldogs may consider transitioning Galvin into a No. 13 role, a ball-playing lock, to accommodate his arrival. While the idea has potential — especially with the modern evolution of mobile, creative forwards — critics argue the move could blunt Galvin’s natural playmaking instincts.
“His best football has been in the halves. He’s a game manager, a tempo-setter, and most comfortable with the ball in his hands early in the set,” said a former NRL halfback turned pundit. “You don’t want to overcomplicate a player’s development by shifting him away from what he does best.”
The biggest immediate concern, however, may be what this signing means for other key playmakers on the Bulldogs roster. Burton, a premiership-winner with Penrith, is in the middle of a strong season and unlikely to be moved. Off-contract halfback Toby Sexton, who has been pushing for consistent starting minutes, now faces an uncertain future.
Sexton’s management is reportedly seeking clarity from the Bulldogs on where he stands in the club’s plans moving forward. With Galvin entering the frame and Hayward still developing, Sexton may be squeezed out unless the club sees him as a long-term No. 7.
Coach Cameron Ciraldo is now tasked with juggling multiple playmakers in a side that has been building chemistry and form. The Bulldogs currently sit at the top of the NRL ladder and are being tipped as genuine contenders for the 2025 premiership. The addition of Galvin could strengthen that title push — or potentially destabilize the team if not handled carefully.
Despite the question marks, there is no denying the long-term upside. Galvin’s natural flair, composure under pressure, and football intelligence make him a rare talent. If developed correctly, he could become the centerpiece of the Bulldogs’ spine for years to come.
“Lachlan is a generational player,” a Bulldogs official said. “We see him playing a key role in our future — whether that’s at six, seven or 13, we’ll work with him and the coaching staff to find the best fit.”
For now, Bulldogs fans are buzzing with excitement and speculation. Does Galvin’s arrival make the club a stronger title threat in 2025? Possibly. But with great talent comes great responsibility — and the Bulldogs must now strike the right balance to make this bold move pay off.
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