Storm: Team Preview

Another year and another host of stars have departed Victoria largely due to the salary cap. The loss of inspirational lock Dallas Johnson cannot be understated while winger Steve Turner and centre Will Chambers also moved on from the premiership 17. Todd Lowrie and Chase Stanley are among the recruits and as is always the case expect coach Craig Bellamy to unearth another couple of guns. Under 20s graduates Gareth Widdop and Jesse Bromwich are highly rated and sure to make an impact, so write the premiers off at your peril.

What has to go right: The club's rep stars, Cam Smith, Billy Slater and Greg Inglis among them, have to get through another taxing campaign that will include the three-match State of Origin series and the Anzac Test against New Zealand. A finding in Inglis' favour when his assault case goes back to court also wouldn't hurt the club.

What could go wrong: People have been expecting it for a while and it hasn't yet eventuated but with the core of this group having been together and up for several years now, it wouldn't surprise if a decline sets in after making four-straight grand finals.

Nightmare headline: Rebels poach Slater

Sportal prediction: 2nd