Trial matches are a good opportunity for teams to have a hit-out before the season starts, but there is actually something on the line during this time.
All 17 teams take part in what’s known as the pre-season challenge, with the four Las Vegas teams – Warriors, Sharks, Panthers and Raiders – beginning their matches a week earlier than other teams.
The winning team and the end of the pre-season challenge pockets $100,000, and teams are allowed to field as many as 28 players per week, giving clubs the chance to get as many of their squad match-ready as possible.
