The changes
In: Hogan, Stretch, Kent, Wagner
Out: Jake Melksham
What to expect
Melbourne are among the competition’s elite when it comes to three, key statistical areas: uncontested possession (second in the league), kicks (second) and marks (fourth).
The Demons’ dominance in these areas illustrates the way in which they like to play, owning the ball by foot.
Naturally, this keeps the ball out of their opposition’s hands and allows them to control the pace of the game.
The Demons top four players for average kicks per game are Christian Salem, Jayden Hunt, Tom McDonald and Michael Hibberd, all of whom are defenders and all, bar Hunt, are going at a rate of over 75% disposal efficiency.
If the Hawks are to curtail the Demons preferred game-style this week, they will be looking to force the Demons to kick long as opposed to finding those short, high-percentage options.
By kicking long, this may also highlight an area of weakness for the Demons with their debilitated ruck stocks hindering their ability to compete in such marking contests.
Read: The last time we met Melbourne
Players to watch
The Demons have built a strong midfield, with co-captains Nathan Jones and Jack Viney continuing to lead the way from the middle of the ground. But the Demons’ season stand-out so far has been second-year midfielder Clayton Oliver.
Oliver has catapulted himself into the conversation of the league’s elite midfielders, averaging the sixth highest tallies in both average disposals (31.7) and average contested possession (14.8) league-wide.
Another young Demon who is enjoying a break-out season is Christian Petracca.
The number two pick in the 2014 National Draft, Petracca is averaging 18.3 disposals, 5.5 marks and 1.8 goals per game, playing predominantly as a forward.
The 21-year old has troubled opposition defenders with his raw power and skill level, and he will be undoubtedly watched closely by Hawk stoppers this week.
