Starcevich was West Coast's prized off-season recruit, but the two-time premiership defender has barely got going since arriving in the Eagles' nest.
A knee injury limited Starcevich during the early part of the pre-season and repeat calf injuries have grounded him ever since.
Given Starcevich is highly likely to need a run in the WAFL when he is finally fit to play, an AFL return midway through the season looms as a best-case scenario.
"He had another incident on it a couple of weeks ago, so there's been a couple in a row now and I think it's now just about building him back up," McQualter said of Starcevich's calf setbacks.
"We've got him for the long term and we see him being a really important player for us for a long time.
"So it's a shame because he's such a good player, we'd love to have him out there now but we're going to try and set him up for a great back half of the year."
West Coast are no longer favourites to win a second straight wooden spoon after producing fighting comeback wins over North Melbourne and Port Adelaide over the past fortnight.
The Eagles' young guns will receive a huge test on Saturday when they confront premiership fancies Sydney at Optus Stadium.
Making matters more difficult is the fact West Coast's two midfield "bulls" Elliot Yeo (groin) and Deven Robertson (suspended, one week) will be missing.
Yeo is only expected to miss one or two weeks but his absence will heap further pressure on Harley Reid, who has been a key contributor to the club's hot early-season form.
Elijah Hewett (quad) is a chance to return after making it through last week's WAFL hit-out unscathed, while McQualter will contemplate giving No.1 draft pick Willem Duursma some more midfield time.
Eagles forward Jacob Newton is unlikely to play again this season after suffering a navicular fracture in his foot.
"I'm gutted for Jacob, he had one when he was 17 years old as well on the other foot," McQualter said.
"He'll most likely go away for surgery now and rebuild him back up."
Sydney are expected to welcome back Isaac Heeney from a hamstring injury, but McQualter had an important piece of advice for Swans coach Dean Cox.
"I reckon it's not a bad idea if Coxy leaves him over in Sydney. It's a long trip over here to Perth," McQualter joked.
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