Zac Hosking (2RF) – 41% ownership
It’s Zac Hosking season, people. I was keen on him in the pre-season, but his injury and the emergence of Matty Nicholson put that on hold. Now, with news that Nicholson is out for 12 weeks and the spot is Hosking’s, he’s the waiver of the week without question. He’s odds-on to grab some attacking stats against the Titans too.
Ezra Mam (5/8) – 39% ownership
Mam returns in a timely boost for the Broncos. With Ben Hunt tearing his hamstring and the real possibility he moves to hooker on return, Mam is a solid option. He’s never been hugely relevant as a Super Coach option, but the 5/8 position lacks depth, and this Broncos team can pile on points when they’re in the mood. Worth a waiver pick-up.
Lyhkan King-Togia (5/8) – 33.4% ownership
Still keen on him despite a below-average score last week. This kid has serious talent and will gain dual position next week, making him quite valuable. He’s a solid third-half option and provides much-needed depth during the Origin period when byes and player restings hit hard.
Jazz Tevaga (HOK/2RF) – 28.6% ownership
Tevaga looks to have locked down a starting role at Manly, whether it’s at hooker or lock. He won’t set the world on fire, but he’s providing solid scores. With so many underperforming hookers right now, he’s worth a shout. His dual status is a handy bonus, too.
Ryley Smith (HOK) – 19.6% ownership
Another one who won’t set the world alight—similar to Tevaga—but if you’re lacking in the hooker department and need consistent points, Smith could be your answer. He’s essentially Reed Mahoney 2.0: 50 tackles a game, 50 points, and reliable output. Hopefully, as he gains confidence at the NRL level, some attacking stats follow.
Free Agent Pick-Ups
Alex Johnston (CTW) – 5.9% ownership
A prolific try-scorer. Latrell is back at fullback. They’re playing the Tigers, who just conceded 64 points—say no more.
Zac Laybutt (CTW) – 1.5% ownership
I’m loving anyone playing on the Cowboys’ left edge at the moment—it’s carving up teams. If Laybutt slots straight in there with Purdue shifting to the halves, which we assume will happen, I’m very keen.
Kitione Kautoga (2RF) – 8.3% ownership
The Knights are actual faeces, so picking up players coming up against them isn’t a bad strategy. Parramatta are also shit, but Kautoga showed a bit of flair last week and has some attacking upside. He’ll be running at Jack Cogger all night, which could see him get some upside again.
