The Bulldogs are a chance to welcome back defensive duo Jason Johannisen (hamstring) and Dale Morris (broken arm) for Saturday's crucial clash with Port Adelaide in Ballarat. Both just need to pass fitness tests to play in a game the Dogs have to win to play finals.

In his last season at AFL level, veteran Matthew Boyd could also be considered if his troublesome Achilles has settled down.

With impressive first-year defender Lewis Young struggling against the Giants, the 18-year-old may get a rest, key defender Fletcher Roberts a likely replacement.

Ruckman Tom Campbell is a chance to resume from an abdominal strain, but it's likely to be with Footscray in the VFL.

After missing the past month with a facial infection, expect tough midfielder Mitch Honeychurch to play at state league level. Key forward Tom Boyd is also likely to return in the VFL after his mental illness battles.