His side is ageing, and some of his senior players look woefully out of form.
Is it time for Steve Hansen to bite the bullet and get some of them to walk the plank?
Logic would suggest so, but it is unlikely to happen.
Hansen has already said he has trust in those underperformers to flick the All Black switch when needed.
So, the likes of Tony Woodcock, Andrew Hore and Israel Dagg should see their name read out tomorrow.
Newcomers should include Blues loose forward Steven Luatua, while team-mates Charles Piutau and Francis Saili should also get the call.
Most selectors name a bolter to surprise a few, so maybe someone like Highlanders hooker Liam Coltman may sneak in.
But Hansen does not seem that type and it seems certain he will stick with the tried and true.
All Blacks
Possible squad
Backs: Israel Dagg, Ben Smith, Julian Savea, Charles Piutau, Conrad Smith, Rene Ranger, Ma'a Nonu, Francis Saili, Dan Carter, Aaron Cruden, Beauden Barrett, Piri Weepu, Aaron Smith, Tawera Kerr-Barlow
Forwards: Kieran Read (captain), Liam Messam, Victor Vito, Sam Cane, Matt Todd, Steven Luatua, Luke Romano, Brodie Retallick, Dominic Bird, Jeremy Thrush, Owen Franks, Ben Afeaki, Tony Woodcock, Wyatt Crockett, Dane Coles, Keven Mealamu, Andrew Hore.