WEST Coast spearhead Josh Kennedy is a chance to make an earlier than expected comeback from ankle surgery during the JLT Community Series, forwards coach Jaymie Graham says.
Kennedy started on-ground running at Eagles training last week and moved laterally, albeit a long way from top speed, in short and sharp exercises during Monday's session.
While the season-opening blockbuster against Sydney is Kennedy's focus, the dual Coleman medallist could yet appear in West Coast's final pre-season hit-out on March 11 against Fremantle.
"I think if he's feeling great there'd be a possibility, but there's still a fair bit of time away between now and round one and late in JLT," Graham said.
"It's just on how he's feeling each week and how he presents each session, and so far he's progressing well."
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The Eagles have been heavily criticised for being too Kennedy-conscious in recent seasons, especially when the 30-year-old almost single-handedly dragged West Coast into finals last year.
Without the power forward on the training track, the Eagles have experimented with their attacking mix, which is set for an overhaul in 2018.
"Obviously we want him out on the track every session but guys like Jack Darling, Jamie Cripps and Mark LeCras have been able to really lead the forward line," Graham said.
"We've had Liam Ryan, Willie Rioli, Jake Waterman, Matt Allen, some young guys getting some opportunities to fill those spots at training.
"There hasn't been that Josh Kennedy sole focus – which is not what we want but he gets into good spots – so other guys are getting opportunities at training, so it's been great for their development."
The Eagles had almost their entire squad training at Domain Stadium on Monday, although full-back Eric Mackenzie is still in a moon boot after a recent setback with his troublesome toe.
Graham said fellow veteran Mark LeCras has enjoyed a "great pre-season" after hip issues slowed him last year, and he hopes an influx of goalkicking talent can relieve some pressure on the veteran in 2018.
"They add a different dynamic and it's helping Lecca out," he said.
"Also he's been able to work closely with those boys and show some leadership, it's been good for him."
Graham and senior coach Adam Simpson will take charge of a young Eagles squad for the club's AFLX campaign this week.
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Liam Duggan, with 46 games under his belt, will be the most experienced member and is set to captain the group of mainly first and second year players, who will be auditioning for spots in the JLT Community Series.
"It's a great opportunity for young guys to go over and experience travel routine and build some chemistry together," Graham said.
