After an outstanding off season recruiting campaign prior to 2015, headlined by the signing of former top five draft pick Cale Morton, much improvement was expected and finals was touted as a real possibility. However sitting 3–9 with six games remaining, a massive upset over reigning Premiers Footscray saw its season spark back into life. It was followed by wins over fellow stand alones Port Melbourne & Frankston, & a big win over the old aligned side in Richmond at Punt Road. All of a sudden the Lions were in finals contention, however needed to dislodge Casey who were in 8th position. Despite a three-goal lead at half time, the Lions would lose by 17 points, ending their season. It would also turn out to be the last game for Captain and club legend Nick Carnell, in game 168.