What to expect

Despite being beaten in both their AFLX hit-outs, the Blues showed they’re set to become a more attacking side this year after notching a 22-point win over St Kilda last week.

Midfield regulars Patrick Cripps and Matthew Kreuzer spent time forward, kicking two goals apiece to provide the side with more scoring options and are set to do so throughout 2018 along with more of the Blues’ other stars.

With Round 1 also less than two weeks away from their clash with the Hawks on Saturday the Blues are likely to field a near full-strength side in what will be their last hit-out before the season proper.

Rising stars Jacob Weitering and Sam Petrevski-Seton are two that could come into the side this week after being late withdrawals from Carlton’s opening JLT Community Series encounter, while recruit Jarrod Garlett is a chance to miss after hurting his shoulder.

Read: Cyril sizzling on training track 

Players to watch

Star Blue Patrick Cripps was arguably the side’s best in their preseason clash with St Kilda as he played predominantly in attack, with his two goals coming from 20 disposals.

After a broken leg restricted him to just 15 games last season, Cripps looks to be unhampered in his return and will be one Blue the Hawks will have to keep close tabs on, whether he plays through the middle or up forward.

Defender Caleb Marchbank also racked up the disposals last week with 25 against the Saints.

The 21-year-old also had four rebound 50s and five inside 50s, providing the Blues with plenty of drive out of the back half, and looms a key player to stop for the Hawks in Launceston this weekend.

The Hawks and Blues' final JLT2 teams will be released at 4pm Thursday at hawthornfc.com.au.

For JLT Community Series ticket information, click here.