New signings Brodie Croft and Paul Momirovski are in Australia and fellow new signing Kieran Hudson has not yet recovered from an Achilles injury. Harry Newman, Mikolaj Oledzki, Tom Holroyd, James Bentley, Rhyse Martin and James Donaldson are among other players not available.
That will mean some tinkering, particularly in the three-quarters and front-row, but coach Rohan Smith has named a strong 22-man squad which includes off-season additions Lachie Miller, Matt Frawley, Andy Ackers and Mickael Goudemand. Here’s how Rhinos could line up.
7. Scrum-half: Jack Sinfield
The teenager was Rhinos' half-back for the final four games of last season and is likely to get the nod again next week. Photo: James Hardisty
8. Prop: Mickael Goudemand
The French recruit is better known as a second-row or loose-forward, but with three props unavailable could make his first appearance for Leeds in the middle. Photo: James Hardisty
9. Hooker: Andy Ackers
The England World Cup player, signed from Salford, is one of the star attractions in Rhinos' Boxing Dasy squad. Photo: James Hardisty
10. Prop: Justin Sangare
Sidelined since July with a foot injury and has never started a competitive game for Leeds, but could be part of an all-French duo at prop. Photo: James Hardisty
11. Second-row: James McDonnell
Effectively became a first-choice second-rower last season and is set to continue at Christmas. Photo: Leeds Rhinos
12. Second-row: Morgan Gannon
Was at stand-off when he scored a try in last year's Boxing Day game, but is likely to be in his favoured role this time. Photo: Steve Riding