Brisbane coach Chris Fagan refused to enter the conversation regarding the health of wounded ruckman Oscar McInernery.
McInerney has been a stalwart for the Lions, and rarely missed a game before last year's preliminary final when he dislocated his shoulder twice in the heroic victory over the Geelong Cats. He did not play in the AFL Grand Final the following week.
However, the 31-year-old has struggled to regain his fitness, and form, in 11 outings this year, which also saw a 10-week break from the AFL side in a bid to overcome a nagging back injury.
McInerney rejoined Fagan's side three weeks ago against Carlton, but has been unable to find his feet in the top flight.
He's recorded disposal counts of 6, 11 and 3, and has also seen a drop in hit-out numbers from past years.
"That's a fair observation," Fagan said of McInernery's form.
"We've got to make a decision on that. I don't talk about the bodies of players in press conferences. That's giving away information to the opposition that is a little bit unnecessary."
The Lions have persisted with a two-ruck combination, utilising Darcy Fort in the role to accompany McInerney. Fagan did not disclose if that combination would remain in place against the Pies.
On top of McInerney's injury woes, Keidean Coleman's latest quad setback has all but ruled him out for the remainder of the year; Kai Lohmann will miss four weeks with a calf issue; and Conor McKenna will be absent for the same length with a hamstring problem.
It comes as Fagan and his men prepare for a crucial clash against ladder leaders Collingwood at the MCG on Saturday night, a match-up that has troubled the Queensland club in recent times.
Following a shock 66-point loss to Gold Coast in Round 20, the Lions slipped to third on the ladder as Adelaide leapfrogged them.
With five clubs nipping at the heels, and the worst percentage among the top nine sides, there is no margin for error.
"It better be a one-week thing," Fagan said of the disappointing loss to the Suns. "We have to bounce back. No choice."
