Brian Lake (33)
In the big games against the monster forwards, he stands up beautifully.
He still has the touch, the strength and the judgement and he remains one of Hawthorn's most important players heading in to the finals.
Was rested from the trip to Perth last week – a calculated risk – but will be back to stare down Geelong's Tom Hawkins on Saturday night in the clash that could determine Hawthorn's top-two hopes.
Lake desperately wants a new contract next year, but the club has yet to declare its hand.
Sam Mitchell (32)
The midfield maestro is showing no signs of slowing down and is enjoying one of his best seasons.
Averaging 26 disposals a game for his career before this year, that figure has jumped to 30.7 in 2015.
Mitchell remains a key member of the deep and diverse Hawthorn midfield set-up but increasingly his best work comes across half-back, where his incredible football smarts and equal abilities on both sides of his body sets up the play for the Hawks.
In the top five in Brownlow betting once again, and on track for a fifth best and fairest.
Mitchell is contracted for next season.
Shaun Burgoyne (32)
Here's the thing about the player they call 'Silk'. He rarely plays a bad game for the Hawks.
He made some uncharacteristic skill errors against Richmond a fortnight ago but then came roaring back with an excellent outing against West Coast including two brilliant and vitally important goals.
Considering he joined the Hawks with a dicky knee in 2010, he has been remarkably durable and has played the last 51 consecutive games for the club.
Another who is signed and sealed for next season.
Luke Hodge (31)
His hardness and leadership remain critical for the Hawks and he remains arguably the best captain in the league.
The only downside for Hodge was his three-week suspension for a clash involving North's Andrew Swallow, but even then the absence has helped keep him fresh and on the ground ever since.
Hodge saves some of his best footy for road games and his form in the big wins over Adelaide, the Sydney Swans and West Coast was top-shelf.
Looks primed for another big September and is contracted again to play next year.
David Hale (31)
Started the season slowly because of injury but the big man stepped in against Melbourne in round seven and didn't miss a game until being rested against the Eagles on Saturday.
Hale is still an important player for the Hawks because he offers plenty both in the ruck and as a marking target close to goal.
He played those roles particularly well in the slogging win over Adelaide in round 12.
Josh Gibson (31)
An integral part of the Hawthorn backline, part lock-down defender, part third-man up, part quarterback.
In the ideal Hawthorn set-up, James Frawley and Brian Lake take the two best opposition forwards, leaving Gibson to be third man-up and to be the set-up man out of the backline.
He continues to defy his "man about town" image and is one of the hardest workers at the club and meticulous with his preparation.
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