Fresh off a rousing victory over Fremantle that locked in a spot in September, the Brisbane Lions have received more good news on the injury front.
There were grave fears for midfielder Jarrod Berry when he dislocated his shoulder in the club's impressive 57-point thrashing of the Dockers in Perth.
Lachie Neale has also been missing since round 21 after picking up a quad injury in the victory over Collingwood at the MCG.
Quad injuries can be notoriously tricky to get right, but coach Chris Fagan said the club is taking all precautions and the dual Brownlow medallist is on track to return for week one of the finals.
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“If you look at him, he's running really well,” Fagan told SEN'S Fireball.
“It's just the action of kicking that's a threat to this particular type of injury that he's got.
“So, we'll take the maximum time to get him right and he'll play in week one of the finals.”
The sight of Berry - who has played all but one game this season - nursing a limp shoulder after he was tackled by Andrew Brayshaw at Optus Stadium immediately had Lions fans fearing the worst.
Brisbane's victory over Fremantle elevated the reigning champions to third on a congested AFL ladder, with a final home match against the Hawks to come.
Fagan made the surprise comment Berry could line up against the Hawks, but it appears more likely he will follow the Neale route and be managed until the postseason gets underway.
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“We need a bit more information on that one,” Fagan said.
“There was a level of optimism that he would be able to keep going, but whether he needs a week off before finals, we’re not sure yet.
"That will sort of be decided during the week. But I think if there's any doubt this week, he doesn't play because you've got the bye the week after.
“That effectively gives him a three-week period to sort of build the strength back up in the shoulder.
“So it's probably more likely that he doesn't play this week and we just get him ready for that first week of finals.”