Losing Charlie Curnow is a significant setback for Carlton, especially with such high stakes in their game against St Kilda. His absence could impact their forward line considerably, making it even more crucial for the remaining players to step up. Mitch McGovern’s likely absence compounds the challenge, putting more pressure on Carlton to adapt their game plan.
Coach Michael Voss will need to adjust the forward mix effectively to compensate for the loss of Curnow. If Carlton loses to St Kilda, Fremantle could indeed capitalize on the opportunity to push into the top eight, making this a crucial game for the Blues.
Harry McKay (quad), Jack Martin (hamstring), Adam Saad (hamstring), Lachie Fogarty (collarbone), Jordan Boyd (adductor), Tom De Koning (foot/lung), Adam Cerra (hamstring) and Matt Cottrell (shoulder) are also sidelined.
Voss wouldn’t rule Sam Docherty, who suffered a third ACL tear in March, out of making a comeback in finals if the Blues make it.
Brodie Kemp, who kicked four against the Eagles, will stay in attack but the Blues believe Curnow will be fine to play in the first week of finals if Carlton qualify.
“It’s something that he’s obviously had to manage for a little while, but just feel like we just need to give it that little extra (time to) settle so it can settle down a little bit more,” he said.
“But that’ll be three, four weeks, after his last incident. So feel pretty confident that obviously the best-case scenario getting through and playing, that he’ll be fit and available.”
McGovern (hamstring) didn’t train with the main group and clearly appears in some doubt to play.
“We’ll give him every opportunity to be able to get up,” Voss said.
Corey Durdin dislocated his shoulder against West Coast and is also touch-and-go.
Adam Saad is expected to return after a week out with a “very low-grade” hamstring injury with Voss saying Carlton had opted not to risk him on a flight to Perth.
“He’ll play,” Voss said.