Charlie Cameron was an exciting off-season acquisition for Brisbane, but good mate Mitch Robinson has warned to not expect too much from the speedster in his debut on Saturday.

Cameron played 73 games in four seasons for Adelaide and will play his first for the Lions against St Kilda at Etihad Stadium.

Robinson said it took him a little while to fully integrate with his new club after heading north from Carlton in late 2014.

He expects the same from Cameron.

"We don't have too many expectations on him in the first game," Robinson said.

"Personally, it took me five or six games to understand the game-plan and how certain players played, particularly in the midfield, understanding the ruck combo and how the ball goes inside 50.

"We don't expect him to turn it on straight away, it's going to take time.

"He knows he's just got to play his role, that's what we all have to do.

"Hopefully he can find some of that form he's had the last two years in Adelaide."

Robinson made no secret of the fact he was keen to lure Cameron north, the two forming a strong friendship through mutual mate Eddie Betts.

On the same day Cameron debuts, Robinson will play his 150th game, 10 months after his 149th following a broken foot against Sydney in round seven last season.

"It's been a long wait," he said.

"I was playing great footy at the start of last year and unfortunately got injured.

"I had to put in a good pre-season and make sure I got through the two (JLT) games and put my hand up for selection and fortunately I got the nod."

Robinson and Cameron will form part of a quick forward line that is also expected to include No.1 draft pick Cam Rayner.