Port Adelaide recruit Jack Lukosius is making tremendous progress from a long-term knee injury that could see him return to the senior side earlier than expected.
After crossing from Gold Coast via trade last year, Lukosius returned to his home state and looked every bit worth the move by the Power throughout the summer months.
But the former Sun only made it through Round 1 before fracturing his kneecap against Richmond, with expectations he could miss the bulk of the season.
However, following a successful surgery, Port Adelaide is hopeful that Lukosius will be good to go in six to eight weeks, placing him around the mid-season bye.
"All the feedback I have heard has been really positive, so I think I am in a really good place," Lukosius said.
"I started some pool work over the last few days, so I think it is trending well.
"There is a good carrot there. Initially, when I heard fractured kneecap, I thought that it couldn't heal too quick, so it is good to hear some positive news and that everything is going really well."
Lukosius was one of many Power players downed by injury, which has contributed to the slow start.
Fellow forward Todd Marshall is expected to miss the 2025 season after rupturing his Achilles, while key defenders Esava Ratugolea and Brandon Zerk-Thatcher have spent time on the sidelines.
Star midfielder Zak Butters just returned to the senior side after problems with his knee.
"I think Todd is sick of seeing players in and out of rehab. It will be good to spend another good month with him in the gym," Lukosius said.
"He is looking massive, and he has done a heap of work."
Both Marshall and Lukosius spent time at the Women's and Children's Hospital this week visiting wards and handing out Port Adelaide teddies to the kids in the hospital.
The Women's and Children's Hospital Foundation is the official charity partner of Gather Round.
