Moving week, the money round... whatever you call it, this is the week where DT seasons are made or lost.
That might sound dramatic, but this is the first week of price rises for the majority of players who will have played their third game of the season come the end of Round 3.
This is the last chance to grab the rookies and bargain-priced players who are going to start their pricing ascent, so it’s vital to jump on the right players now, all the while trading out those who aren’t pulling their weight.
Let’s take a look at those players you should be investing in, holding or letting go, as well as some of the better captaincy options for Round 3.
Buy
Michael Gordon | WFB/CTR | $285,200
Had a very impressive outing against the Rabbitohs in Monday Night Football. 171m, 12 tackle breaks, 2 line breaks and a try all contributed to a score of 73. With the Sharks returning to a vocal Sharks Stadium to face the Warriors this week, coupled with a BE of -6 and dual position status, what more could you want?
Albert Kelly | HLF | $156,300
Perhaps the biggest must-have prospect this week, Kelly has been a revelation at halfback for the Titans. Scores of 45 and 47 have him primed for a big increase regardless of his total against the Sea Eagles this week, but all signs point towards another solid points-return. You’re going to get a good return on your investment - a BE of -36 (!) should put Kelly firmly on your radar.
Hold
Johnathan Thurston | HLF | $384,400
The Cowboys weren’t successful against the Storm, but Thurston did everything in his powers to try and get them across the line. This resulted in a relatively modest points return of 33, but that shouldn’t turn you off the North Queensland co-captain. Thurston isn’t going to score 60+ every week, but is always capable of a monstrous score. If you’ve got him now, you bought him for a reason - don’t let him go just yet.
Jarryd Hayne | WFB/HLF | $412,400
Many DT coaches were tipping Hayne to be among the top DT scorers in 2013 under new coach Ricky Stuart. Things were looking positive after a round one score of 63, but that was followed by 35 against the Bulldogs. He’s sitting on a BE of 50, and is projected to hit that against the Wests Tigers. Hold for now, particularly given he averages just under 40 against the joint venture club.
Sell
Tariq Sims | 2RF | $161,800
There was a lot of hype around Sims ahead of round one, but an opening score of -3 quelled the initial enthusiasm. 27 in round two was more indicative of what the strike second rower is capable of, but given he hasn’t been selected in the Cowboys round three side and has a BE of 34, consider some cheaper options in the back row to free up some salary cap space.
Tony Williams | 2RF | $373,400
Williams was looming as a quality premium option in your second row, but consecutive scores of 28 has seen owners faced with a BE of 78. There are plenty of other viable options at this price point (or below), so consider alternatives here. As he settles in at his new club and after a likely drop in price, Williams might be a handy selection later in the season.
Round 3 Captains - players to consider
Greg Inglis | WFB/CTR | $399,600
Trent Merrin | FRF | $385,500
Sam Burgess | FRF/2RF | $378,900
Paul Gallen | 2RF/FRF | $514,500
Robbie Farah | HOK | $436,100
Wildcard: Michael Gordon | WFB/CTR | $285,200
