5. Strengths and Weaknesses

The Hawks have a good ball-winning midfield group, led by Tom Mitchell who is as good as anyone at collecting the ball. Jaeger O'Meara is a star of the game and is a genuine match-winner, while James Worpel adds plenty of grunt throughout the engine room.

LAUNCESTON, AUSTRALIA - MAY 25: James Worpel of the Hawks celebrates after kicking a goal during the round 10 AFL match between the Hawthorn Hawks and the Port Adelaide Power at University of Tasmania Stadium on May 25, 2019 in Launceston, Australia. (Photo by Scott Barbour/Getty Images)

Their weakness is up forward. The future of spearhead Jon Patton remains a mystery as he looks doubtful to return to the AFL stage ever again. Mitch Lewis is yet to take the strides needed for Alastair Clarkson to be able to trust him to lead the forward line. Luke Breust is their most genuine goal-scorer but you can't rely on small forwards to carry the load. Gunston will miss the start of the season, hopefully meaning someone steps up in his absence.