Jahrome Hughes returned to play just 22 days after breaking his wrist in 2025, offering a possible recovery precedent for Kalyn Ponga.
Hughes was injured against the Broncos on September 4 and played in the Storm's preliminary final against the Sharks three weeks later.
Ponga is booked for surgery after breaking the radius in his left arm during New Zealand's 24-22 defeat by the Kangaroos on Thursday night.
Kiwis coach Stacey Jones said Ponga had "played on" for 20 minutes before leaving the field in the 70th minute.
It remains uncertain whether the fullback will miss the rest of the tournament.
Team doctor Greg Macleod said Ponga would stay with the squad while his recovery became clearer.
"We wish Kalyn all the best with his surgery today," Macleod said.
"We'll see how that goes but for now he will remain in camp."