Bradman Best is in serious doubt for Newcastle’s Round 21 clash against the Raiders, after being seen at training on Wednesday wearing a knee brace and sitting out the club’s main field session.
The 22-year-old centre has endured an injury-riddled season, and his latest setback could see the Knights forced into another backline reshuffle.
Best has managed only 13 appearances from 18 possible matches in 2025, with recurring hamstring issues derailing what was meant to be a breakout year.
A fresh knee concern now threatens to sideline him again, further weakening a side already grappling with an extensive casualty list.
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Knights clinging to hope, but options limited
The Newcastle Herald reports Best is “no guarantee” to line up against Canberra, though the Knights haven’t ruled him out completely. The extent of the injury remains unclear, and a final call may not come until late in the week.
If Best is ruled out, either James Schiller or Kyle McCarthy, both included in the 22-man squad, are expected to step in.
Newcastle, 14th on the ladder and just two points clear of last place are staring down the barrel of a disastrous finish to the season.
Kalyn Ponga, Fletcher Sharpe, Dylan Lucas and Adam Elliott are all already sidelined, and with pressure mounting on head coach Adam O’Brien, another major injury could prove costly.
The Knights' final run, which includes the Panthers, Cowboys, Broncos, Sharks and Eels, leaves little margin for error.