It may only be Round 3, but several NRL clubs have been hit with injuries and suspensions to star players, while another coach has decided to axe a star halfback after two consecutive losses.
In what seems like a playmaker's curse, Adam Reynolds, Cameron Munster, Josh Schuster, Jayden Sullivan, Lachlan Ilias, Luke Keary, and Jahrome Hughes may all be absent this round.
Teams will be named on Tuesday at 4pm (AEST), but here is all the latest in news and rumours.
Penrith Panthers vs Brisbane Broncos
The reigning premiers will be without 2023 Golden Boot winner James Fisher-Harris this week after he sustained a shoulder injury during their game against the Eels. Although it doesn't seem serious, he is expected to be out for this week.
In his place, the Panthers could select either Lindsay Smith or Liam Henry, which would free up a spot on the interchange bench. Daine Laurie should also keep his spot on the team despite playing limited minutes last week.
Projected Round 3 Team: 1.ย Dylan Edwardsย 2.ย Sunia Turuvaย 3.ย Izack Tagoย 4.ย Taylan Mayย 5.ย Brian To'oย 6.ย Jarome Luaiย 7.ย Nathan Clearyย 8.ย Moses Leotaย 9.ย Mitch Kenny 10. Lindsay Smith 11.ย Scott Sorensenย 12.ย Liam Martinย 13.ย Isaah Yeo 14. Daine Laurie 15. Mavrik Geyer 16.ย Luke Garnerย 17.ย Liam Henry
The Broncos are facing a double blow for the Grand Final rematch, with Adam Reynolds ruled out and Payne Haas carrying a minor knee injury.
The loss of Reynolds will likely see Jock Madden enter the halves. However, Kevin Walters could also choose from the likes of Coby Black, Blake Mozer or Tristan Sailor if he decides to go another way.
Projected Round 3 Team: 1.ย Reece Walshย 2.ย Jesse Artharsย 3.ย Kotoni Staggsย 4.ย Selwyn Cobboย 5.ย Deine Marinerย 6.ย Ezra Mam 7. Jock Maddenย 8.ย Corey Jensenย 9.ย Billy Walters 10. Fletcher Bakerย 11.ย Brendan Piakuraย 12.ย Jordan Rikiย 13.ย Patrick Carriganย 14.ย Tyson Smoothy 15. Jaiyden Hunt 16.ย Kobe Hetheringtonย 17.ย Xavier Willison
