All appears to be forgiven for Lance Thompson after the disciplined backrower was named on the St George Illawarra bench - then tipped by coach Nathan Brown to start in their NRL season opener this weekend.

Thompson endured a turbulent pre-season, taking time off from training due to personal reasons then being dropped to Premier League indefinitely for turning up to training intoxicated last month.

However, Brown said Thompson had "done everything right" in Premier League, earning a spot on a six-man bench for the Dragons' first round home clash against Canberra on Sunday.

While two players have to be omitted, Thompson is not only expected to maintain his place but Brown also hinted that the "heart and soul" of the club could nab a starting berth.

"Lance is a good chance. We've got to wait and see what the make-up of the side is going to be that's all," Brown said.

"Lance is doing everything right at training, he's back in the top squad so everything is looking okay."

While Thompson is almost certain to play, highly rated 19-year-old prop Ashton Sims is "a slim to none" chance of running on this weekend despite also being named on the bench.

The former Junior Kangaroo has not recovered from a knee injury sustained in the last trial against the Bulldogs a fortnight ago.

"If he was fit he'd be playing, there's no easing him into it," Brown said.

The Raiders could also make some late changes to their side, refusing to rule out the last minute inclusion of Brad Drew.

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