Sean Cronin, back from an IRFU imposed break (under the Player Welfare Management Programme), replaces Adrian Flavin at hooker in the starting lineup.
Mike McComish has recovered from the illness that ruled him out of last weekend's clash against Leinster and he replaces Shane Conneely on the bench.
The rest of the pack remains unchanged with Academy star Eoin McKeon retaining his place at number 8 following an impressive display last weekend.
The reshuffled backine sees the adaptable Ian Keatley move to fullback with former New Zealand Youths Troy Nathan, who qualifies for Ireland through residency, shift to the wing.
Nathan has 64 caps for Connacht and has shown his versatility having played in every position in the backline for the Province.
Academy graduate Eoin Griffin moves to outside centre and he is joined on the wing by Fionn Carr, with Brian Tuohy providing cover from the bench.
Connacht team to play Newport Gwent Dragons at Rodney Parade on Thursday 6 January:
Ian Keatley, Troy Nathan, Eoin Griffin, Keith Matthews, Fionn Carr, Miah Nikora, Cillian Willis, Brett Wilkinson, Sean Cronin,Jamie Hagan, Michael Swift, Michael McCarthy, Andrew Browne, Johnny O'Connor, Eoin McKeon
Replacements: Adrian Flavin, Rodney Ah You, Dylan Rogers, Bernie Upton, Mike McComish, Frank Murph, Niva Ta'auso, Brian Tuohy
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