NRL SuperCoach: Watson vs. Grant as best hooker, which Origin stars are rested? | Round 19 Teams….
Here’s a detailed breakdown from the Round 19 SuperCoach preview and podcast for the hooker debate and Origin back-up news:
Hooker: Connor Watson vs Harry Grant in SuperCoach
**Harry Grant (Melbourne Storm / QLD Origin)**
A proven, high-scoring No. 9—notably named Dally M Hooker of the Year in 2024. In 2025, he’s been a reliable performer for both the Storm and Queensland . Despite coming off Origin duties, his consistency makes him the safer pick.
**Connor Watson (Sydney Roosters / NSW Origin)**
Versatile and capable of playing across the pack. He managed a solid 56-point return in Round 19 while shifting between lock and hooker spots—but hasn’t delivered the same ceiling as Grant . Considered more of a mid-tier utility selection.
Verdict: While Watson offers some flexibility and recent form, Grant remains the top hooker pick thanks to higher floor, ceiling, and reliable game involvement.
Which Key Origin Stars Were Rested in Round 19?
The podcast confirmed key Origin players either rested or being managed:
Scott Drinkwater (Maroons / Hamstring issues)
Isaah Yeo (Blues / ongoing recovery)
Payne Haas and Tino Fa’asuamaleaui (physically carrying knocks into the decider)
These decisions had direct impact on SuperCoach line‑ups, with coaches urged to either hold or rotate trades accordingly.
Hooker Crisis Continues: With no standout cheapies at No. 9, SuperCoach insiders urged targeting Grant ASAP, while caution was advised around Watson—the “utility” tag lowers his reliability despite flashes .
Trade Priorities: Reinforcement of other SuperCoach studs who backed up from Origin, and any value buys given injury/rotation risks.
If you’re chasing consistency and ceiling at hooker, Grant is the priority.
If budget or multi-position coverage matters, Watson offers rotational upside, but higher risk.
Avoid overpaying for unproven cheapies at hooker—better to bank points via Grant or wait if injury risk drops his price.
Player Position SuperCoach Appeal Origin Backup Status
Harry Grant Melbourne / QLD High floor/ceiling Backed up
Connor Watson Roosters / NSW Utility flexibility Backed up, manageable
Best hooker pick for SuperCoach? Harry Grant—consistent, proven, high scoring.
Watson? Useful if budget or positional needs, but less safe.
Origin player management: Drinkwater, Yeo, Haas, and Tino were either rested or under heavy load, directly influencing team selections in Round 19.
Final trade advice: lock in Grant if you can, account for Origin hangover risk across key studs, and avoid hooker cheapies unless they have proven form.
If you’d like a breakdown on other SuperCoach positions or players impacted by round‑19 team changes, just ask!
