A four-game slate on Saturday in the second week of pre-season injury has thrown up plenty of questions, and some answers, for the eight coaches involved.
While some teams will be concerned about their standing ahead of the campaign, others will be thrilled with young talent on display as the Manly Sea Eagles, Wests Tigers, Canterbury Bulldogs and South Sydney Rabbitohs all claimed victories over the New Zealand Warriors, Sydney Roosters, Newcastle Knights and St George Illawarra Dragons respectively.
Here are all the big talking points out of the four games.
Halasima's best position is not centre
Leka Halasima's rise into first grade in 2025 has been monumental, a strong, elusive and aggressive player who has unlimited potential. He lined up at left centre on Saturday afternoon, where he failed to get into a rhythm during the game.
In what was a considerably weaker Sea Eagles side, he failed to make a mark during the game. With his destruction on the edges for the Warriors last year, this trial showed that is his best position moving forward.
Although it is only a trial, and was most likely a tactical decision from coach Andrew Webster, the Dally M Rookie of the Year should return to either the starting side or off the bench at second row this season.
Kyle Flanagan will have a charmed life, while his old man is coaching the team. It’s only natural. Shane won’t give him the bullet unless he is diabolically bad.
Reed may potentially be the best 7 and Atkinson may potentially the best 6, but I can’t see the fans finding out unless Shane is prepared to write off the pre-season and try that combination, with Kyle at 14.