Nicho Hynes will take on extra responsibility in the Blues' first attempt to snap consecutive series losses to Queensland with goal kicking duties in Wednesday's Origin opener.
Speaking on NRL 360 Tuesday night, NSW assistant coach Matt King said the incoming half will "take the reins" despite a wealth of options in the side.
Both Stephen Crighton, who lined up for conversation attempts in the absence of Nathan Clearly in games two and three last year, and St George goalkicker and Origin debutant Zac Lomax were alternative choices.
Hynes boasts a 93 per cent conversion rate from his attempts across the current NRL season.
"He's got a better percentage out of all of those guys," King said.
"I think Zac (Lomax) would be playing second fiddle to him. We're blessed with goalkeepers for sure...Nicho will get the points for us tomorrow night."
In a losing series in 2023, the took some bragging right in the goalkicking department.
Clearly slotted 3/3 in game one, with Crighton adding extra points with only opportunity in a 32-6 loss in Brisbane before make up for his two from four conversion attempts hitting two penalty goals in NSW's sole win in Sydney.
Valentine Holmes in contrast missed with at least one attempt in each game, and kicked 8/13 overall across the series.
Hynes will look to impress in his first chance in the no.7 jersey in the Origin area after a much-criticised limited opportunity on debut in Adelaide last year.
The 27-year-old entered camp under an injury cloud, but has sine trained in full alongside the squad.
King said he was confident Hynes and returning five-eight Jarome Luai will do the job directing their side around the park in Homebush.
"Those guys have gelled so well...it's been a pleasure actually to sit back and watch those guys connect straight away," he said.
"Nicho, in particular has been exceptional. He's super clear on what our footy is going to look like (and) how he's going to drive that.
"I can't wait to see them (Hynes and Luai) connect and combine and dance together tomorrow night."
