A trip to Canberra may also bring the return of one of North Melbourne’s most important players.

Daniel Wells is among a host of stars nearing their first senior game in many weeks, putting pressure on the current 22 to hold their spots.

Have your say on any potential changes in the comments below.

#4: Liam Anthony

The reason: Another 36 possessions for Anthony on Sunday demonstrated his ability to find the ball. In a good vein of form for North Ballarat, the midfielder would bring a genuine outside running threat to the senior side.

The challenge: Other teammates appear to be ahead of Anthony in the queue for a spot, meaning he’ll have to continue with strong performances in the VFL.

#8: Daniel Wells

The reason: Of all the long-term injured players, Wells is the only one being considered to come straight back into the North Melbourne side. If he gets through training for the rest of the week, he’s a certainty to play at either AFL level or in the VFL with North Ballarat.

The challenge: With a player as valuable as Wells, throwing him straight back into a high-pressure situation could be risky. One week with the Roosters to find some match fitness may be the safer option.

#14: Trent Dumont

The reason: Dumont turned in a clear best-on-ground performance for North Ballarat on Sunday, collecting 35 disposals and kicking three goals. He also spent time forward, perhaps opening up the possibility of a senior debut in a slightly different role to his normal midfield position.

The challenge: The first-year player was admittedly heavy in the legs after Sunday’s game at Coburg City Oval after a heavy training block. One more strong performance may be needed before he is called up.

#23: Kieran Harper

The reason: Playing off half-back for the first time on Sunday, Harper was impressive. Able to offer Werribee run and carry while also defending well, he was judged as one of the best afield by Gavin Brown.

The challenge: Considering it was a new role for Harper, it’s likely he’ll spend a couple more weeks learning the intricacies of it before being considered for a promotion.

#32: Mason Wood

The reason: Wood was very good again for Werribee against Port Melbourne. Kicking three goals and amassing 21 disposals, the left-footer was a threat both inside the forward 50 and further up the ground.

The challenge: Battling with an illness over the weekend, Wood may not be 100 per cent during the lead-up to the game against the Giants. Considering a senior debut is the prize, it may be better to wait until he can put in a full week of impressive performances on the training track.

#40: Kayne Turner

The reason: It would be a big surprise, but Turner has improved out of sight in his first year at Arden Street. Following his game for Werribee on Sunday, Gavin Brown stated that Turner was ‘knocking on the door’. The comments even surprised the small-forward himself.

The challenge: Currently on the rookie list, an existing senior-listed player would either have to be demoted or placed on the long term injury list for Turner to debut.

#50: Ben Brown

The reason: Returning after missing a match due to a finger injury, Brown provided a presence up forward for Werribee. After impressing in his four senior games, the Tasmanian would be a strong candidate to come back into the North side.

The challenge: Despite the Kangaroos only scoring 79 points against Geelong, they did have 29 shots on goal, having little trouble hitting the scoreboard. With that in mind, the coaching staff could have faith in the existing setup.

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