The Fair Dinkum Department

Shaun Johnson won the Golden Boot in 2014 and has always been one of the most entertaining NRL players to watch - but has he ever been so close to the Dally M medal? We've run the numbers and, if this was still a betting market, SJ would be a very good option.

Ben Hunt is the Dragons' best player but wants out - preferably back to Queensland and maybe even the Brisbane Broncos. Should the NRL investigate if this is cheating - or is that utter madness?

This week on the Fair Dinkum Department:

• SHOULD THE BLUES MAKE MASS CHANGES FOR GAME 2?

• SHOULD BRAD FITTLER BE SACKED?

• IS JAMES TEDESCO’S NSW SPOT IN DANGER?

• DOES THE NRL NEED TO CHANGE ORIGIN PERIOD?

• IS SHANE FLANAGAN THE MAN FOR THE DRAGONS?

Rugby league outrage: there’s plenty of it. We’re going to decide if it’s real or ridiculous.

Fire up over these questions:

IS DAMIEN COOK’S REP CAREER OVER?

DOES NATHAN CLEARY “NEED” TO WIN THIS ORIGIN SERIES?

ARE THE KNIGHTS IN A MARKET FOR A NO.6? 

IS JARROD CROKER DECISION DISRESPECTFUL?

SHOULD THE NRL STOP TAKING GAMES TO NEW ZEALAND?

There's a distinct lack of hype in New South Wales after Brad Fittler's squad announcement. Are the Blues doomed - or is the concern just a little bit ridiculous?

Everyone wants a piece of Magic Round - but Brisbane won't be giving up the NRL festival without a fight. Does rugby league's big weekend work outside of Queensland, though?

Would giving up on season 2023 and planning for next year achieve anything for the Dragons? Likely not. Josh Schuster is an undeniable talent but seemingly has the dedication of any mortal 21-year-old. The Broncos are pretenders! No, wait: they're top of the table.

Why is everyone so outraged?

Should Jack Wighton be loyal to the Raiders - does he owe them anything? If he goes to the Rabbitohs, who leaves Redfern to make way? We've got NRL hot takes by the bagful.