The NRL rarely stands still.
Between NRL training sessions, media appearances, and behind-the-scenes conversations, new storylines often begin to emerge before the weekend arrives.
Throughout the week, ESPN will be gathering notes, insights, and updates from around the competition heading into Round 23 of the NRL.
Moses inspired by Lebanon's rise
Mitchell Moses believes Lebanon could field its strongest World Cup squad yet as the nation continues to attract more established NRL talent.
"We didn't have too many first-graders in 2017, then we had a few more in the 2022 World Cup, and I guess in this next one we'll probably have a few more as well," Moses said.
"It's growing and growing each year."
Moses also praised former Cedars coach Michael Cheika, describing him as the best communicator and man-manager he has encountered.
"I've never seen someone control a room so well," he said.
"I learnt a lot from him and I still talk to him today.
"He gives us some great advice."
Samrani braces for family ticket frenzy
Jordan Samrani expects Lebanon's clash with Tonga to produce a sea of red and green in the stands, and a sizeable ticket request from his extended family.
"Every week when I play, we get told we can only get six tickets. I go quietly into our football manager's office and ask for about 30," Samrani joked.
"For a Lebanon World Cup match, it'll be 50 or 60 at least.
"A lot of cousins -- I was walking around the field on Sunday and about six people told me, 'You're my cousin.'"
Cheika's pride in giving back to Lebanon
Michael Cheika says coaching Lebanon has allowed him to contribute to his family's homeland through the game that became his life.
"As the son of immigrants, I never thought I'd be able to contribute to the country in my area of expertise," Cheika said.
"It's given me a lot of pleasure and pride."
Cheika said helping Australian-born players reconnect with their heritage made the experience particularly meaningful.
"We were able to give a whole lot of kids born here a connection back to Lebanon culturally, as well as through sport.
"I can't tell you how good it's been for me.
"I've loved it."
LKT retains Dragons halves spot
Lyhkan King-Togia is set to once again keep Daniel Atkinson out of the halves this weekend, with Dean Young confirming the young gun had done enough against the Dolphins to retain his jersey.
"Lyhkan will be the five-eighth next week because of the performance he put in tonight," he said.
Young said that Atkinson "knows what [he] needs to work on" in order to earn a return to first grade.
Galvin learning patience
Stephen Crichton believes Lachlan Galvin's biggest area of growth has been learning when to play with patience, revealing the pair have spent time reviewing games together as the young halfback settles into first grade.
Crichton said Galvin sees the game differently to most players, but has quickly improved his game management over recent weeks.
"Patience is the biggest thing," Crichton said.
"Lachie's a 19-year-old halfback that sees the game a lot different to others.
"Sitting down and watching the game back with him... he's really nailed that over the last couple of weeks."
Critta enters Fatherhood
Stephen Crichton admits becoming a father has changed his outlook on football, revealing the arrival of his daughter has given him a new perspective beyond the game.
"It's always been footy, footy, footy with me," Crichton said.
"Now baby's here... you're just grateful they're healthy.
"When times get tough at training, it's a massive motivation for me."