Carlton are likely to be without star defender Jacob Weitering for a further week, while gun midfielder Adam Cerra is no certainty to lace up the boots to face St Kilda on Friday night.
The pair are among the extensive injury list at Princes Park, which has grown since their triumph over Fremantle in Round 15.
Weitering has been sidelined since the Blues' win over Collingwood almost a month ago, having suffered an AC joint injury. While he was seen as a chance to make his return this week, the Blues have confirmed they expect their key backman to require a further week in his recovery.
Cerra will also be a test in the coming days as he battles a hamstring injury sustained after the club's Round 13 win over Essendon, having missed matches against the Tigers and Dockers.
Carlton have stated Cerra will be assessed in the coming days as he works through full training.
The news comes as young defender Luke Parks' season is drawn to an early close, with a foot injury ruling the 21-year-old out for the remainder of the year.
A bone stress injury has required Parks to wear a moon boot and will take no further part in the 2022 campaign.
Fellow defender Jordan Boyd may face a similar fate after suffering an acute fracture in his foot in Saturday's win over Fremantle.
Boyd was subbed out of the match in the final quarter and has since undergone scans, confirming the extent of the damage.
The injury sees the in-form defender a small chance to make his return to the field this year.
Forward trio Jack Martin (calf), Lachie Fogarty (back) and Matt Owies (calf) will also be tested in the coming days to prove their fitness for selection to face the Saints.
Carlton will face St Kilda at Marvel Stadium at 7:50pm (AEST) on Friday night.
