North Melbourne can expect to regain star ruck Tristan Xerri for Sunday's trip to Canberra to face the GWS Giants.

Xerri becomes available for selection this week after serving his three-match ban for striking Melbourne's Tom Sparrow.

The All-Australian contender had played every game this season before his suspension, averaging 35 hitouts.

Paul Curtis' one-game ban opens a space in the Kangaroos' forward line, and Geordie Payne has ensured his name will be front and centre when the selection committee meets.

Payne kicked six goals in the reserves' loss to Sandringham at Trevor Barker Beach Oval on Sunday, backing up his four-goal haul against Geelong the previous weekend.

A Tasmanian product who arrived at Arden Street in last year's mid-season rookie draft, Payne was dangerous in the air and at ground level against the Zebras.

Marking machine Finnbar Maley could be in line for a recall if spearhead Nick Larkey (knee) is ruled out.

Maley provided a target against Sandringham, taking seven marks, although he struggled for accuracy in front of goal, kicking 1.3.

Swingman Cooper Trembath could also be considered for an AFL debut after kicking two goals in the VFL.

The versatile tall took seven grabs including several superb pack marks, while setting up two other goals. 

Fellow defender-turned-forward Matt Whitlock is another potential tall forward option, having kicked six goals in the reserves in the past two weeks.

His two goals on Sunday included one of the day's highlights: a stunning right-footed snap from deep in the pocket midway through the second quarter.

Midfielder Will Phillips continued to press his claims with another hard-at-it performance in the VFL. He laid six tackles while earning 20 disposals and five clearances.