Melbourne prop Nelson Asofa-Solomona is out of the NRL for up to eight weeks due to a knee injury.
Asofa-Solomona suffered the injury in the Storm's win over Wests Tigers on Sunday.
The Storm confirmed the extent of the problem, a torn posterior cruciate ligament, on Monday.
"Nelson's injury is disappointing given he has contributed greatly to the forward pack's success so far this year," Melbourne football director Frank Ponissi said.
"As has been the case over the opening half of the season, the squad has proven its depth and resilience. The opportunity is now there for another player to step up."
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Asofa-Solomona has been a key figure in the second-placed Storm's good form this year. Much of their play has been based on the go-forward of their giant pack.
Matt White will likely come into the Storm side for Friday's round 17 clash against Brisbane at Suncorp Stadium.
Storm coach Craig Bellamy is hopeful Cameron Munster and Blake Green will return from injury for the top four battle.
