Knights winger Starford To'a will play his first NRL game in almost three months as one of four changes to the Newcastle squad to meet the Broncos in Saturday's final round clash in Brisbane.
Key forwards Jayden Brailey, Jacob Saifiti and Mitch Barnett, along with winger Hymel Hunt will all be rested.
The Knights secured seventh spot on the ladder following their win over the Gold Coast Titans last Thursday night and their position for the finals won't change irrespective of the outcome of the Broncos clash.
But coach Adam O'Brien will resist the temptation to make widespread changes for the game. Key playmakers Mitchell Pearce, Kalyn Ponga and Jake Clifford will all play along with strike centre Bradman Best and be given an opportunity to further work on the side's clunky attack.
As previously revealed by the Newcastle Herald, strike forwards Saifiti and Barnett will both be rested while hooker Brailey and winger Hunt also earning a week off.
Saifiti to be replaced by David Klemmer, who returns from a one game suspension. Brodie Jones is expected to be named as Mitch Barnett's replacement in the backrow with Jack Johns back from a shoulder problem and likely to fill a bench spot.
Brailey will be given the game off to rest up despite missing the win over the Bulldogs a fortnight ago. Chris Randall is set to be named at hooker.
Hunt is nursing some niggling injuries and will be the only player in the backline to miss the Broncos game. To'a, who impressed in a lower grade scrimmage on the Sunshine Coast on Sunday, will come into the side outside Kurt Mann.
Phoenix Crossland also comes onto the bench with O'Brien set to use him in a utility role.
