If we lose Leuluai and Deacon then we're in a bit of trouble. They form an integral part of the creative fulcrum of the side as well as giving us much needed direction across the park. I think we lose shape when one of these players are not on the pitch. I wouldn't be so nonchalant about the prospect of losing both Deacon and Leuluai. In time Mellor and Logan Tomkins could prove to be suitable replacements, but both players need drip feeding into the team and not just thrown in.
I like Rangi Chase and think he is one of the front contenders for Man Of Steel this year. Certainly one of the best halfbacks in the league and will move on to a bigger club with more ambition than Castleford. However I'm not sure if his 'off the cuff' style of play would fit into our more rigid, somewhat mechanical structures that we vigilantly abide by every week.
I hope all these Leuluai rumours are false. Losing him along with Deacon are two players I'd hate to try to replace.