Despite Gold Coast’s 38-point loss to the Kangaroos last Saturday, there was one reason for coach Rodney Eade to smile.

2014 No. 8 draft pick Peter Wright announced himself a potential future star of the competition with the 19-year-old kicking three goals to go with 17 disposals and eight marks.

Wright’s opportunity came as a result of Steven May’s five-game suspension and may never have eventuated if the key defender wasn’t ruled out.

“He [Peter Wright] was really pleasing,” Eade told United Coaches Chat on Thursday.

READ: Wright shines bright on disappointing night

“Out of every negative I always say there’s a positive so the fact we’ve had to play Sam Day down back and I thought Sam performed really well.

“If we didn’t do that Pete probably wouldn’t have played so Pete showed that he can cut it at this level already as a youngster.

“That makes it a real positive going forward when Steven does come back that we may be able to play three tall forwards.”

The opportunity to play Wright and Sam Day alongside Coleman Medal leader Tom Lynch provides a tantalising prospect for the veteran mentor.

READ: Lynch takes lead in AFLCA vote

Despite the perception the side may be a bit top-heavy with a three-pronged tall attack, Eade doesn’t subscribe to that notion.

“Obviously the worry would be forward pressure but Sam’s really good at that, Peter’s getting better at that,” he said.

“Pete’s got a really big tank, can get up and down the field, but Sam’s got good speed so I think it’s a good balance and as you said, tantalising.”