NRL Fantasy Teams Analysis: Round 15

As we dive into Round 15 of the NRL Telstra Premiership, Fantasy coaches are facing a unique challenge. The absence of Origin stars and the implications of a bye round mean some significant Fantasy players, including Terrell May, Luke Metcalf, and Joseph Tapine, will be unavailable. This article explores the latest Fantasy insights following the team announcements, providing you with everything you need to make informed decisions during this tricky round.

Sharks vs. Dragons: Thursday at Sharks Stadium

Sharks Overview

The Sharks have encountered a setback with the loss of consistent CTR KL Iro due to a pectoral injury. Mawene Hiroti will hold onto his position in the backline, even with the return of Ronaldo Mulitalo. Priced at $431k, Hiroti holds dual position designation as WFB and CTR and could be a valuable addition, especially with the increased likelihood of a regular NRL spot.

In their recent match against the Warriors, only Cameron McInnes and Addin Fonua-Blake managed to score over 50 points, indicating a generally uninspiring performance. However, with over 9% team ownership, Nicho Hynes will be looking to bounce back from a disappointing 25-point outing in his previous game against the Dragons.

Dragons Overview

For the Dragons, Toby Couchman is again named to start on the edge, scoring 54 points in Round 14. However, this positioning could limit his potential going forward. Emerging cash cow Lyhkan King-Togia may have reached the peak of his value, given that he has a break-even score of 24, only marginally lower than his average. Nevertheless, in such a critical bye week, it’s advisable to hold him for at least another round. With Emre Guler’s return, we may see diminished returns for Hamish Stewart and Loko Pasifiki Tonga as their game time is likely to be affected.

Titans vs. Sea Eagles: Friday at Cbus Super Stadium

Titans Overview

Jayden Campbell’s season-low 36 points last week was a disappointment for Fantasy coaches, but he remains a hold due to his upside potential in Round 15. With key forwards absent due to Origin duty, Klese Haas (MID/EDG; $418k) is set for an expanded role. Conversely, Sam Verrills’ imminent return from reserves raises uncertainty around Sean Mullany’s starting position.

Sea Eagles Overview

Haumole Olakau’atu is currently performing exceptionally well, evident in his 95-point performance last week—making him an ideal pick during the Origin period. Jazz Tevaga (MID/HOK; $573k) has also been on a scoring spree, reaching 50+ points consistently. The return of Tom Trbojevic is expected to elevate the Sea Eagles’ abilities, enhancing the value of backline players. Notably, Daly Cherry-Evans is available during a major bye round for the first time in a long time, but with an average of 50.5, he may not be a strong trade target unless you’re in a pinch.

Knights vs. Roosters: Saturday at McDonald Jones Stadium

Knights Overview

Fletcher Sharpe returns to the fullback position, where he previously scored 98 points during the last major bye round. Kai Pearce-Paul’s performance last week (scoring 80 points) makes him a potential point-of-difference player for teams in need of front-row depth and with under 5% ownership. This week also marks Jackson Hastings’ first game of the season, though he may soon relinquish his spot for Kalyn Ponga’s return.

Roosters Overview

The major Fantasy buzz revolves around Sam Walker’s return from his long-awaited ACL recovery. However, it’s the surprise selection of Hugo Savala as Walker’s partner in the halves that catches attention; he’s currently in 26% of teams. If you still own Sandon Smith, it might be a good point to sell, given his shift to the bench. Despite his return, Walker’s average break-even of 45 suggests he can wait on the sidelines for now. Mark Nawaqanitawase’s move to center and Naufahu Whyte’s return from a knee injury adds more strategic options for Fantasy coaches.

Cowboys vs. Dolphins: Saturday at Queensland Country Bank Stadium

Cowboys Overview

Scott Drinkwater’s bounce-back to 56 points has positive implications for Fantasy players, although the absence of key players like John Bateman, Viliami Vailea, Tom Dearden, and Reuben Cotter significantly hurts the team’s overall scoring capacity. Jaxon Purdue’s meager 36 points last week further indicates he’s unlikely to be a reliable option in the halves unless he transforms his play.

Dolphins Overview

HLF Isaiya Katoa has been on an impressive streak, with his last sub-50 performance dating back to Round 8. He’s proven himself as an elite choice in the halfback position. Jake Averillo, coming off a 50-point performance, will step in at fullback, replacing Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow (also absent for Origin). Keep an eye on these developments, especially with important team dynamics evolving.

Rabbitohs vs. Bulldogs: Sunday at Accor Stadium

Rabbitohs Overview

Keaon Koloamatangi stands out as Fantasy’s top performer this week, boasting an average of 84 points over his last three games and a price of $800k. He’s a worthy candidate for captaincy and a must-have for any team missing key players. Euan Aitken has also been impressive, with a 60 point outing last week, bringing his 3-game average to 62.7. Lachlan Hubner is expected to make some returns with a favorable break-even score of 24.

Bulldogs Overview

The return of Jacob Preston from suspension is a significant boon, especially with a 60.1 season average. If your team is lacking depth at EDG, he’s definitely a trade-in option this week. Jacob Kiraz is another option with less than 5% ownership, showing potential as a point-of-difference with a recent 55-point average. Meanwhile, Lachlan Galvin will start in the halves in lieu of Matt Burton, who is currently on Origin duty.

Conclusion

Round 15 promises to be a pivotal one for Fantasy coaches, with the absence of key stars creating both challenges and opportunities. By carefully analyzing player performances, injury news, and selection changes, you can navigate these tricky waters effectively. Make timely trades and holds to maximize your Fantasy point haul during this major bye week.

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Make the most of Round 15 and happy Fantasy coaching!