Cam Rayner shapes as Lions’ finals X-factor

Brisbane Lions coach Chris Fagan isn’t sure whether explosive forward Cam Rayner can maintain his blistering form all the way through September.

But if the man club legend Jonathan Brown rates as the Lions’ most important player can keep delivering, the new flag favorites will take some stopping in this year’s premiership race.

Rayner starred with 22 touches, eight score involvements and three goals in an 85-point thumping of St Kilda on Sunday, which extended Brisbane’s winning streak to nine matches.

The 24-year-old has kicked multiple goals in each of his past six outings, and had at least 20 touches and six score involvements in the last three.

“He’ll always try to keep improving but if he can just stay at that level I think we’ll all be pretty happy,” Fagan said.

“It’d be fair to say that his last three weeks have probably been the highest level that he’s played at consistently from the day he started.

“I’m so pleased for him because he’s a very popular team member.

“He brings a lot of spirit as well, and he’s always been that sort of guy.”

Rayner, the No.1 draft pick in 2017, sat out 2021 after a knee reconstruction and is starting to fulfill his potential.

“He’s had a few challenges in his career,” Fagan said.

“Being the number one pick is a bit of a cross to bear sometimes and he’s had a knee reconstruction in his seven years that he’s played as well.

“We’re now starting to see the best of Cam Rayner and hopefully everyone in the AFL gets to enjoy that.”

Fagan eased fears over Charlie Cameron, who was subbed out of the win over St Kilda.

The veteran goal-sneak was being rested ahead of a six-day break into Brisbane’s high-stakes clash with fellow contenders GWS at the Gabba on Saturday.

The Lions also expect to regain key forward Eric Hipwood, a late withdrawal from the Saints clash with groin soreness.