1. Ben McEvoy (Hawthorn)

Ruckman Ben McEvoy has been in strong form to start 2016, and he will have a big role to play on Saturday.

Alongside teammate Jonathon Ceglar, McEvoy will have the task of negating Demons big man Max Gawn, and helping the Hawks win the ball out of the middle.

But McEvoy’s ability to float forward and be a dangerous marking option around goal will also be crucial.

2. Nathan Jones (Melbourne)

Melbourne skipper Nathan Jones is more often than not among his side’s best.

With fellow clearance specialist Jack Viney sidelined, Jones’ ability to win the contested ball becomes even more important.

The star Demon averages 26.9 disposals per game, plus 5.2 clearances and 9.3 contested possessions.

3. Sam Mitchell (Hawthorn)

Midfield maestro Sam Mitchell started the season on fire – averaging a phenomenal 35.4 disposals in his first five matches.

He’s been a bit quieter in the past two weeks, with 15 disposals against Sydney Swans and 24 disposals against Brisbane Lions.

Mitchell’s ability to win the ball and use it effectively is pivotal for the Hawks, and they will be hoping he can get plenty of it against the Demons.

4. Jesse Hogan (Melbourne)

You could argue that Jesse Hogan is the Demons’ most important player.

The 21-year-old is fast establishing himself as one of the competition’s best forwards.

Hogan ranks fourth in the AFL for marks in 2016 and has kicked 26 goals from 10 matches – the most of any Demon.

5. James Sicily (Hawthorn)

After getting a taste of senior football in 2015, James Sicily has started to establish himself within the Hawks’ forward line.

There’s plenty to like about the 21-year-old, who has shown an ability to pull in big marks and kick some important goals.

Alongside teammates Jack Gunston and Tim O’Brien, Sicily will look to cause havoc for the Demons’ defence on Saturday.