Carlton defender Nick Haynes is poised to make his AFL return as coach Michael Voss ponders how to replace All-Australian Jacob Weitering.
The Blues vice-captain was concussed during the loss to North Melbourne, joining young tall Harry Dean in concussion protocols.
Running defender Adam Saad will also come into consideration for Thursday's clash after producing strong performances in the VFL, while Cooper Lord trained on Tuesday after recovering from four nights spent in the hospital with a staph infection.
"We won't disclose all of it, but obviously, without ‘Weiters', we need to replace that pillar," Voss said.
"He's going alright post-weekend, he's bounced pretty well at this stage as he goes through his own protocols. Now it's about the game and the next player that comes in; we'll work out what that balance looks like.
"Obviously, Derksen came in last week, ‘Youngy' played a bit more in the ruck, we'll talk about what that splits need to be. ‘Haynesy' has had a few games under his belt; he's certainly getting closer to be ready, and there's a few others in that boat as well. ‘Saady' isn't a tall, but he's gone back and found a bit of form on the weekend, which was good to see. There's a few guys that are a chance if the opportunity presents itself."
Weitering may not be the only change, with forward Will Hayward fighting a suspension at the Tribunal on Tuesday.
Despite Adelaide's potent forward line, Lewis Young is tipped to remain in the ruck instead of returning permanently to defence, given Weitering's absence.
Ruckman Liam Reidy will not be available for selection after accepting a one-match suspension for a strike in the VFL, adding more intrigue to Carlton's team line-up.
Flynn Young could force his way into the senior side after yet another strong outing in the reserves, while Hudson O'Keeffe is an option to assist Marc Pittonet with the ruck duties.
Young, who is in line to replace Hayward if he's found guilty, gathered 21 disposals, 11 marks and kicked three goals.
Voss insists that he is ignoring the immense pressure surrounding his future as the Carlton coach after a disappointing opening month, resulting in one victory.
The second-half fadeouts have become the norm as the Blues fail to halt the opposition from being runover.
Vision showed former Port Adelaide player and Carlton staffer Travis Boak, talking to the players at the long break against North Melbourne, which resulted in a better response in the third term. However, it wasn't sustained as they kicked two goals to seven.
"I don't pay any attention to it," Voss said.
"At some point in time you've just got to get on with the task at hand, and that's what we're doing.
"I'm not distracted off anything other than just getting the best out of the team and supporting them as best we possibly can to make the progress we need."
