A WIN over the Sydney Swans on Thursday night at the SCG could give Hawthorn a psychological advantage over their rivals, according to Hawk wingman Isaac Smith.

Hawthorn sits on top of the ladder, a win clear of the second-placed Swans, and both teams enter the clash in strong form.

The Hawks have won six consecutive matches while the Swans defeated premiership contenders Geelong at Simonds Stadium on Friday night.

Smith said a victory in the upcoming contest would help come finals time should the two sides meet again.

"If you win you've probably got the psychological edge the next time you go in," Smith said after training on Monday.

"But I don't think it's the be all and end all.

"Hopefully we meet again in September, because they always seem to be great challenges."

Smith was well aware of the challenge the Swans would pose.

John Longmire's men are second in the competition for contested ball differential and have lost just one game at the SCG this year, by four points to the Western Bulldogs in round 15.

"I watched Sydney on Friday night against Geelong and they were pretty physical and took the game on, and played really strong footy," Smith said.

"We've got a few young guys and they've got a few young guys as well that are playing really good footy and impacting their teams."

Hawthorn's last loss was at the hands of the Swans, by 14 points at the MCG in round nine.

Despite having played in numerous big matches over the recent years, Smith said his teammates relished the opportunity for another victory as the Hawks continue their quest for a fourth straight flag.

"They're the ones you want to play," he said.

"Being on top of the ladder, getting to play in those clashes is awesome.

"Everyone will be pretty pumped up. It's pretty exciting to play in them, and it will be nice to get a win."