Edwards not training. Cleary only has 20% of his ligaments attached on his shoulder. So very limited.
To'o was a season ending injury
3 key guys on very limited training affects attack
Yes. But you must factor in the opposition also.
Eels had no Mahoney and N.Brown also busted. Souths had no Latrel and Reynold wasn't 100% fit. This is NRL. By end of year it is rare any side is 100% fit.
This year it was the Storm who looked all fit. But in their semi final they lost Welch and B.Smith early in the game. It's luck also.
While Nathan is at the club I feel the Panthers will be strong. So the next 9-10 yrs they should be in the finals or close. You will have ups and downs.
Others will come and go. But 2022 I still think Panthers could go back to back. 2023 I expect them to drop off somewhat. Maybe have a mini rebuild like the Roosters are now. But I don't see them ever needing this 3 or 4yr re build while you have Nathan. It will be challenging for the title for a few years followed by a 1 or 2 yr build. I can see another 2 or 3 premierships in the next 10 yrs.