The team includes Daniel Carter, who will be having his first start since spraining an ankle in late March.
He displayed his class when playing half a game against the Reds at Brisbane last weekend.
"It's good to have him back. You saw the influence he had on the game when he came on last week," Deans said from Christchurch yesterday.
Also returning to the starting line-up are halfback Andrew Ellis, lock Ali Williams, prop Ben Franks, hooker Corey Flynn, centre Caleb Ralph and blindside flanker Reuben Thorne.
"We have always taken the Highlanders seriously and we always will," Deans said.
"They have played some good rugby this year but haven't had a lot of luck.
"This is their last outing and I've no doubt they will be throwing everything at it.
"We are keen to put on a good show on Saturday and use the game as a good preparation for the play-offs. The other sides that make it will get really good work-outs and we want to ensure that we get the same."
The Crusaders have not played their best rugby over the last month and have lost to the Chiefs and struggled against the Reds.
"Every game presents us with challenges," Deans said.
"The effort's been there but some of the execution hasn't been perfect.
"We are not too concerned about what's behind us."
Thorne, the former All Blacks skipper, will make his first appearance since breaking his knuckle against the Lions on April 12.
It will be his 127th game for the side, moving him level with Highlanders stalwart Anton Oliver for most appearances for one New Zealand franchise.
"Reuben's had a pretty frustrating time this season," Deans said. "He goes beyond the norm in terms of contribution.
"Reuben doesn't just do his own role. He does what is required at the time. You need those selfless workers in your mix."
Ralph, who, like Thorne, will leave for a Japanese club at the end of the championship, is playing his 135th Super match.
The former Chiefs and Blues player will be just one game behind the competition record-holder, George Gregan, who played 136 games for the Brumbies.
Veteran winger Ralph is also just one try behind Doug Howlett's Super rugby try-scoring record of 59.
Deans has coached the Crusaders to four title wins in Super rugby - 2000, 2002, 2005 and 2006. The Crusaders also reached the final in 2003 and 2004.
Can he win a fifth title?" It's possible," Deans said.
"This week is about giving ourselves a very good preparation. We then have a starter's chance."
Deans admitted being sad to leave the Crusaders.
"It's been a big part of my life for a long time," he said.
"I'll look back with no regrets. I've been very lucky and have worked with some great people. I take with me a lot of great experiences and fond memories."
Deans was farewelled in Christchurch this week in a fund-raising dinner for his Glenmark Rugby Club in North Canterbury which has produced several All Blacks including Craig Green and Alex Wyllie.
"They were all people who care about the game," Deans said.
"It was good to do something for the club and I hope future generations will get the benefit."
