Uncertainty over the salary cap has led some player agents to delay contract decisions, according to manager Gillis.
"I don't think it was done specifically, but I think the new television deal may have seen some agents advise players to pause and just see what happens before they strike."
The November 1 market is expected to be the biggest yet, with the PNG Chiefs set to join the competition in 2028 and a recent broadcast rights deal expected to bring more money into the game.
Many prominent players are coming off contract, Gillis said, and rival clubs can approach stars who still have a year left on their current deals.
"This year, probably more than I can remember, there's a lot of high-profile players coming off (contract) which will attract the interest of multiple clubs," Gillis said.
Some player contracts include a ratchet clause, which Gillis said gives players reassurance as clubs and the NRL await clarity on the future salary cap.
"The ratchet clause gives players comfort, but I'm sure players and agents would still prefer to know the number (salary cap) rather than rely on a percentage of something which we don't know what will be."
"I think clubs and the NRL accept that because we don't know what their cap's going to be. The players are entitled to that clause and I think you'll find that the vast majority, if not all, anticipate that clause to be included."