As the last few blue-and-white figures emerged on to the basketball court at Arden Street for North Melbourne's 2019 team photo, a cheer erupted from the group that had already made it into formation.

It wasn't for coach Brad Scott or cult hero Ben Brown, nor was it for Jack Ziebell, who had just been confirmed as Kangaroos captain for another year.

It was for Majak Daw, who did his best to keep a low profile as he made his way to join the first row.

North Melbourne's Majak Daw returns to Arden Street for the coming season's team photo. Credit:Eddie Jim

Daw's huge smile was impossible to miss, and his very presence lifted the room has he flanked his teammates.