The outlook seems to be encouraging for Beauden Barrett's recovery from a head knock against the Highlanders on Saturday.
The All Blacks first-five was laid out after being barreled by hard-charging Highlanders centre Fetuli Paea, needing a few minutes to regather himself off the canvas, before leaving the game.
The scene would've struck fear in the hearts of both national and Blues selectors alike, well aware of the twice World Rugby player of the year's recent history with head issues.
Barrett suffered a head knock against Ireland in November that he later admitted had left him fearing for his career.
But while he'll miss the next two games due to a mandatory 10-day stand down period for head injuries, MacDonald says Barrett - so far - hasn't shown any symptoms of concussion.
"The early signs are positive for him," says MacDonald. "Other than a mangled up face, he has come out pretty well.
"He's got a sore neck and he's not too happy about that. But he's looking pretty good at the moment, which is promising."
Barrett has a capable replacement in Stephen Perofeta, who will slide into the No. 10 jersey against Moana Pasifika in the rescheduled match on Tuesday, as well as their rematch four days later at Eden Park.
MacDonald stresses the importance of playing it safe with his linchpin back's return, a process they've been navigating since the pre-season.
"We were extra cautious in the way we brought Beaudy back," he says.
"We didn't push him in early, we gave him extra time to make sure he was really comfortable, that it was completely gone and he felt good.
"Even this injury now, it's not a major one, I don't think. He doesn't have any concussion symptoms as such. We'll just keep doing what we are doing.
"Ultimately, we want them playing a long career and not just next week, so you've got to look at the big picture."
Join us at 7pm, Tuesday for live updates of Blues v Moana Pasifika
