Hawthorn enters 2027 with incredible expectations after offseason haul

Key points

• Hawthorn have been named among the premiership contenders after a strong offseason. The club added midfielder Zach Merrett and Gold Coast Suns key forward Ben King, and lost no player of substance.
• Commentator Jono Baruch says the Hawks should be favourites for 2027 and that anything short of a Grand Final appearance would be a disappointment.
• Coach Sam Mitchell has yet to lead the club to a Grand Final, so the coming season is seen as a defining one for the team.