Eels 2023 preview: Big-name exits, injuries leave Parramatta in trouble

The Parramatta Eels made it all the way to the club’s first grand final in 13 years last NRL campaign and now the question becomes simple: Can the blue and gold, bolstered by their Mitchell Moses re-signing, do one better in 2023?

Last year was an incredible season for the Eels, players and fans alike. While it all ended in heartbreak at the hands of western arch-rivals the Penrith Panthers, the ride from round one to the big dance was memorable nonetheless.

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That 2022 high has been propped up heading into round one with the Mitchell Moses extension that should be announced by the club some time this week or next.

There have been several high-profile exits from Brad Arthur’s carefully curated list, not least of all Reed Mahoney and Isaiah Papali’i, and many are slightly concerned they haven’t totally been replaced, but the Eels have proven now they can at least get to within touching distance of the NRL silverware they have long-craved.

Last year’s finish: 4th, 16 wins and eight losses

Last ten NRL campaigns: 4th (Runners-up), 6th (Semi), 3rd (Semi), 5th (Semi), Spoon, 4th (Semi), 14th, 12th, 10th, Spoon

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Predicted Round 1 lineup

1. Clint Gutherson
2. Maika Sivo
3. Will Penisini
4. Waqa Blake
5. Sean Russell
6. Dylan Brown
7. Mitchell Moses
8. Reagan Campbell-Gillard
9. Josh Hodgson
10. Junior Paulo
11. Jack Murchie
12. Matt Doorey
13. J’maine Hopgood
14. Bryce Cartwright
15. Makahesi Makatoa
16. Wiremu Greig
17. Jake Arthur

Coach: Brad Arthur

Biggest losses: Reed Mahoney, Isaiah Papali’i, Marata Niukore Biggest gain: Josh Hodgson

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How 2023 is looking for Parramatta

Despite keeping much of the team together, the Eels have lost one very vital part of the machine that saw them battle all the way to the 2022 grand finals: starting hooker Reed Mahoney.

The 24-year-old’s move to Canterbury has left Parramatta relying on aging veteran Josh Hodgson. While Mitchell Moses—newly re-signed with the club after an extended contract saga—as well as Dylan Brown and Clint Gutherson are still in the spine, Mahoney played a big role in how slick the Eels ended up being last year.

More worrying, the blue and gold squadron has a very rough start to the season with the Storm, Sharks, Panthers, and Roosters all lying in wait in the opening rounds. With their pack shot to bits or missing names like permanent exits Mahoney (Bulldogs) and Isaiah Papali’i (Tigers) and temporary absentees Ryan Matterson and Shaun Lane, options like Matt Doorey, Jack Murchie, and J’maine Hopgood will slot in. Not quite where any club would want to be with that starting run in the first five weeks.

A rough start could leave the Eels racing behind the eight ball early.

On top of that, many of the other top four challengers have recruited well, got back injured stars, or are just looking one year deeper into their projects. Parramatta is going to have a tough time replicating what was a stellar 2022 for the club.

Predicted 2023 finish: 7th

First five: Storm (H), Sharks (H), Sea Eagles (A), Panthers (H), Roosters (A)

TopSport odds: Premiers $16, Make Top 4: $3.30, Make Final 8: $1.70, Miss The Top 8: $2

Pass mark: Make it back to finals and go deep.

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