The Mole's NRL season previews: Rebuilding Wests Tigers not yet finals material
Wests Tigers fans are getting used to their team underachieving in recent years - will a raft of changes see things improve?
RECRUITMENT: Coach Michael Maguire has seen the need for a cleanout, getting rid of 11 experienced players. But will the new recruits be any better? Only Joe Ofahengaue (Broncos), James Roberts (Souths) and James Tamou (Panthers) have had much top-grade experience and 2021 shapes as a rebuilding year.
Former Panthers captain James Tamou. Getty
STRENGTHS: After blooding plenty of young talent over the past 18 months and adding some good up-and-comers, Maguire has plenty of depth in his squad that should see the Tigers through a long campaign.
WEAKNESSES: Attack was a problem last year and losing boom hooker Harry Grant won't help in this department. The Tigers averaged the third-fewest metres per carry in the NRL and will need to find more penetration - especially up the middle.
MAN UNDER PRESSURE: There's no doubting the ability of Joseph Leilua as a dynamic ball runner, but he can also be a boofhead and rival coaches have identified him as a weak link because of his ability to be baited. Needs to cut the crap out of his game and play football - and he'll shine if he does.
ONE TO WATCH: Leilua's 'little' brother Luciano was one of the most improved players in the comp last year. A giant of a man with good leg speed, he's a genuine game-breaker who should only improve in 2021.
Joey Leilua. Getty
WHAT THE BOOKIES SAY: To win comp $41, to make finals $3.68 (via Sportsbet)
WHAT MOLEY SAYS: On their day, the Tigers have the ability to match and beat any team in the game. Sadly in recent seasons, their day has only come once a month or so - and that pattern looks like repeating this year. Not quite finals ready.
