Prediction: 12th

Finish: 12th

After a couple of diabolical seasons, Canterbury fans had reason to hope in 2022 with the acquisition of key players such as Josh Addo-Carr, Tevita Pangai, Matt Burton, Paul Vaughan and Matt Dufty. Yet after 10 rounds, they were at the bottom of the ladder with just two wins, and coach, Trent Barrett fell on his sword.

Mick Potter took over at Belmore, and brought the Bulldogs spirit back to the club. While Dufty left mid-season, and Pangai ended the year on the outer, Matt Burton showed why he could be selected in Australia’s World Cup Squad. Addo-Carr also rediscovered some of his Melbourne form, and should be the first winger picked for the Kangaroos.

The Bulldogs struggled against the top teams, but the acquisition of Viliame Kikau and Reed Mahoney should see them challenge for the top eight in 2023. It’s sink or swim time for rookie coach, Cameron Ciraldo, but his pedigree at Penrith and his close relationship with Phil Gould should see him able to ease into the role without the pressure of being sacked hanging over his head. Still, that was also said about Barrett.

GRADE: B