Footy experts nationwide have been pondering the ramifications of reduced quarters since the AFL announced on Wednesday that the game’s four stanzas would run four minutes shorter in season 2020.

It was the go-to topic for journalists during Adam Simpson’s media conference on Thursday.

The senior coach was peppered with questions about how he might use marquee big man Nic Naitanui differently or change up his midfield rotations knowing that players would spend less time on ground.

One man who, unsurprisingly, isn’t buying the hype is straight-shooting defender Shannon Hurn.

The former West Coast Eagles skipper didn't think the time change would alter the way footy was played this year.

“Every time there is a change everyone goes it’ll be a drastic thing. I don’t think it’ll be that much,” Hurn told westcoasteagles.com.au.

“Games will be similar, probably 25 minute roughly-running clock compared to 30. Maybe a touch shorter.

“Maybe the games will be a bit closer? The ball might be a bit more free flowing? We’ll wait and see.”

One change Hurn is looking forward to is seeing young utility Jarrod Brander streaming down the wing at Optus Stadium.

After being trialled up forward and down back during his first two seasons at the Eagles, the athletic 21-year-old underwent another positional switch during the summer months.

Several strong intraclub showings helped Brander get the nod for both of West Coast’s Marsh Community Series games and he seized his opportunity with productive outings against Essendon and Fremantle.

Hurn expected the Wentworth product to acquit himself with distinction against Melbourne on Sunday.

“Sometimes getting thrown around is not great because you want to be settled, but I think it does help you with your football smarts and understanding of how the game is,” Hurn said.

“I think he has been quite impressive.

“A bit has been spoken about his fitness, which is really good, but for him he just wants to get some continuity and some good confidence in his footy, which I think he has been able to do through the Marsh (Community Series).”