Hawthorn will await the scan results on an ankle injury to Connor Macdonald after the young Hawks failed to see past half-time of Thursday's win over Carlton, however there are hopes the forward has avoided a significant setback.
Macdonald was assisted to the Hawks' rooms in the second quarter after twisting his ankle in a tackle from George Hewett, with the 22-year-old immediately clutching his leg.
The injury looks likely to place Macdonald on the sidelines for next week at the very least, adding to the Hawks' growing list of setbacks from their opening three matches of the season.
Midfielder James Worpel (ankle) and defender Jack Scrimshaw (concussion/suspension) missed the Round 2 victory due to setbacks from victories over Sydney and Essendon respectively, with Macdonald now likely to join them on the sidelines.
Despite fears of another ailment to his side, Mitchell said Hawthorn's depth will keep them competitive.
"(It's) disappointing," Mitchell said post-game on Thursday night.
"I'm not sure exactly what the ankle injury is. He'll have a scan tomorrow and we'll work it out from there.
"Obviously 'Worps' is out now and Jack Scrimshaw is going to miss a couple more.
"We are fortunate that the depth is pretty good, so if we lose Connor there will be a replacement."
According to 7 News' Mitch Cleary, Macdonald has been dealt with a low-grade ankle injury that will mean he avoids injury but likely misses Hawthorn's next contest.
The Hawks' two inclusions for Round 2 - Changkuoth Jiath and Jack Gunston - played key roles in the 20-point win over the Blues, with the latter replacing Macdonald as the tactical sub and ending his night with two goals.
Jiath's 2025 campaign was delayed due to hip injury, with the setback adding to a frustrating few seasons for the Hawks flanker, who has been limited by a series of soft-tissue injuries.
Mitchell credited his rebounding defender on Thursday, noting his "professionalism" to get himself prepared for a contest.
"He's got a physical profile that's magnificent, but with that comes an injury risk," the Hawks coach said.
"He has to be so much more diligent than most. The Newcombes and Worpels can get away with maybe less recovery and they'd probably just feel a bit sore.
"For someone like CJ, he has to do everything right all the time. The level of professionalism from him because of the profile he has... I couldn't be more proud.
"Is it all going to be smooth sailing? Who knows, I hope so. But what I know is he has a great level of commitment to having the greatest possible career and season.
"He played such an important role for us tonight and stepped up when we needed him."
Hawthorn, who have claimed three wins from as many games to start the season, will face GWS in Tasmania next Saturday before their Round 4 bye.
