Huddersfield Giants 2024 season preview
2023 recap
After finishing 3rd and reaching the Challenge Cup Final in 2022, Giants fans could be forgiven for expecting another strong showing last year, but an inconsistent season saw them hovering close to the bottom of the table for most of the campaign. A run of one win in nine games between 23rd April and 30th June left them with too much ground to make up in the end, and despite a run of four straight wins after that they never really threatened to break into the play-offs. A 6th round exit in the Challenge Cup against Salford only added to their misery.
2023 position: 9th
Key signings
Jack Murchie (Parramatta Eels), Thomas Deakin (Sydney Roosters), Adam Swift (Hull FC), Andre Savelio (Hull FC), Hugo Salabio (Wakefield Trinity), Adam Clune (Newcastle Knights)
Key departures
Will Pryce (Newcastle Knights), Theo Fages (Catalans Dragons), Jack Ashworth (Hull FC), Owen Trout (Leigh Leopards), Jermaine McGillvary (Wakefield Trinity), Nathan Peats (Retired), Chris McQueen (Retired)
Players to watch
The arrival of Adam Clune is a bit of a coup for the Giants. While he never quite cemented a starting spot in the NRL, at just 28-years-old, he’s still got plenty of rugby ahead of him, and he could be the latest Aussie to come over here and thrive when given ownership of the team from scrum-half.
On his day, Jake Connor is one of the most naturally gifted players in Super League, but it’s been a while since he showcased his skills on a regular basis. Still, a new season brings with it a fresh start, and his ability has never been in question. This could be a big year for the former Hull man if he finds some form.
Young gun
Academy product, Connor Carr, certainly knows where the line is, after scoring 14 tries on loan at Oldham in 2023. The 20-year-old signed a new 2-year contract with the Giants ahead of 2024, and he’s already got off the mark with a try in pre-season against Castleford. He may struggle to get a start in the early rounds of the season, but an injury or two in the centres could see him burst onto the scene this year.
Our prediction – 9th
Sorry to say, but I’m predicting more of the same from Huddersfield again in 2024. They’ve lost some big players since the end of last season – Chris McQueen and Will Pryce – in particular, and much will depend on how well their new arrivals from the NRL settle in. On paper, the Giants can beat anyone, and another good cup run’s a possibility, but there are a number of sides in Super League that look stronger on paper.
