Shaun Burgoyne (Hawthorn)
There won’t be many bigger occasions for Hawthorn fans during the home and away season than seeing Shaun Burgoyne run out for #Silk300. As classy and as versatile as they come, Burgoyne’s contribution to the Hawks – particularly over the last four seasons, has been vital. This will be a big game, so expect him to have an impact on the game tonight – befitting the occasion.
Eddie Betts (Adelaide)
Ben Stratton undoubtedly got the better of Adelaide’s livewire small forward Eddie Betts last season, keeping him to just one goal in two games against the Crows last season. Both players are in pretty good form – Betts has kicked 13 goals in four games thus far and Stratton kept Bulldog Jake Stringer to just one goal a couple of weeks ago. Can Betts shake Stratton? Will Stratton shut down Betts? It’s likely to have a big impact on the contest.
Sam Mitchell (Hawthorn)
After equalling the club record for the most disposals of an individual player in a game last week with 44 touches, it’s possible to mount a case that Mitchell is playing the best footy of his career to date. Since Round 23 last season, he is averaging a staggering 35 disposals per game, and has already collected 146 disposals for the 2016 season. Expect him to add to that tally with another great performance tonight.
Scott Thompson (Adelaide)
Sam Mitchell isn’t the only veteran midfielder to start 2016 in strong form, with Adelaide Scott Thompson arguably the key to his side’s 3-1 start. The Crows have one of the most powerful forward lines in the competition, but Thompson has been key in feeding them the ball. Averaging 28.5 disposals and seven clearances a game, the 33-year-old has led with his actions in 2016.
Jack Gunston (Hawthorn)
After going goalless against St Kilda last week, Jack Gunston will be looking to return to the goal-kickers list against his old club. Daniel Talia is a backline pillar for the Crows at centre-half back, and Gunston’s ability to win that match-up and hit the scoreboard will be crucial tonight.
