Melbourne Storm coach Craig Bellamy has hosed down fears Billy Slater's shoulder injury is more serious than the club is letting on, declaring the star fullback is a strong chance to return next week.
Slater was ruled out of the round-one clash with the Bulldogs in Perth after jarring his shoulder during the World Club Challenge win over Leeds last month.
The 34-year-old missed almost the entire 2016 NRL season after undergoing shoulder surgery.
But Bellamy says Slater's recent injury isn't serious, and rates the veteran a strong chance to notch his 300-game milestone in next week's home clash with Wests Tigers at AAMI Park.
"A lot of people seem to think that it's worse than what it is," Bellamy said.
"But our medical staff, doctor, physios are on the same line, ever since he hurt it in the World Club challenge.
"He jarred it up. He got in a bad position there. But there's no other damage done.
"He did some contact with us last Friday. After that session he was basically in the team (for round one). Unfortunately on Saturday he pulled up really sore.
"So him and the medical staff think another week will do a whole heap of good for his shoulder, and also mentally as well. We expect him to play next week."
Cameron Munster will fill in for Slater at fullback for the clash with the Bulldogs at the new $1.5 billion Optus Stadium.
Storm captain Cameron Smith admits the club faces a huge challenge replacing star scrumhalf Cooper Cronk, who joined Sydney Roosters at the end of last season.
Brodie Croft has been handed the huge responsibility of taking on the No.7 jersey at the Storm.
Croft has made just five NRL appearances, and the 20-year-old faces a baptism of fire this season as the Storm attempt to defend their title.
Smith is confident Croft can produce the goods, but said it may take some time for the youngster to find his feet.
"He's a very confident kid," Smith said.
"He's not one of these young guys who come in and are shy to call for the footy or try something.
"I'm sure his first couple of games it won't run completely smoothly ... but then after a couple of weeks, I think we'll be ready to go."
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