AFL action returns this week as the first wave of pre-season matches - including an Indigenous All Stars clash - prepare to offer some insight into what fans can expect for the year ahead.

A total of 18 games - made up of differing practice sessions and Community Series fixtures - will run from February 15 to March 2, taking us to just four days out from the home and away season's opener.

To conclude another summer of expectations, training notes, selection calls and coaching strategies, the coming weeks will hope to uncover some positives for each club.

Here we assess and name what fans from each faithful will be hoping to see from their AFL team this pre-season.

2. Brisbane

A forward line that's clicking 

The loss of Joe Daniher over the off-season will continue to be a talking point for the reigning premiers, with any discussion and concern only able to be put to bed once fans see Brisbane's front third as a connected unit.

Expectations on Eric Hipwood will rise, and the role Logan Morris can fill in his second season could be pivotal, while veteran Sam Day or fringe tall Brandon Ryan might be able to add some assistance.

The Lions will again be able to rely on their ground level threats and midfield rotations to sharpen the spear, but the pre-season will hope to present a glimpse that life after Daniher can still deliver premiership contention in Queensland.

Pre-Season Opponents: Gold Coast/Collingwood, Adelaide