Can the Crows reach the finals?

It's probably a stretch to say last year's grand finalists can now win the premiership. Sitting 11^th on the ladder at 7-7, the Crows need to win at least six of their last eight games just to qualify for the finals. However, they showed with a stirring last-quarter fightback to beat West Coast that they are capable of playing the high-scoring brand of football that was so successful last year.

Has cutting ties with Collective Mind improved player harmony?

Speculation was rife about several players, including forward Mitch McGovern, considering their future at the club at the end of the season. McGovern might still request a trade if another club comes in with a big-money offer, but the Crows would be well within their rights to knock it back. Then again, it will be interesting to see if the club's decision to cease their partnership with Collective Mind – the company behind the controversial pre-season camp – has an impact on what happens come trade week.

Will Rory Sloane stay?

The Crows must do everything they possibly can to retain the dual best and fairest and 2016 All Australian. The foot injury that kept him sidelined for 10 weeks could have delayed contract negotiations. If Sloane is committed to leaving, the Crows will need to consider if they want compensation – most likely a first-round draft pick immediately after their choice – or match the offer to the restricted free agent and force a trade.