Friday night footy from the MCG in Round 16 of the AFL Season as the Hawks host the Giants.

We love a good revenge narrative here at the Huddle and that is exactly what Sam Mitchell’s Hawks will be hunting.

Hawthorn looks well placed to avenge their Opening Round loss to GWS, when the Giants proved too strong in a 122-95 defeat of the Hawks.

But these Hawks have proved time and time again this season that they’re the real deal, sitting pretty at 3rd on the ladder while GWS languish at 13th; currently out of Wildcard contention.

Meanwhile, Adam Kingsley’s Giants are desperate to steady a sinking ship after back-to-back losses to St Kilda and Carlton.

A win this week is crucial for GWS as they try to keep their Wildcard hopes realistic.

Will there be a big, big sound from the West of the Town as the Giants visit the MCG?

Or will the Hawks continue their dominance and set their sights on the top two?

For the latest team news, analysis, and expert insights, check out our Hawthorn Hawks vs GWS Giants Round 16 prediction and preview below.

Hawthorn Hawks vs GWS Giants Match Predictions and Betting Tips

Head-to-Head Prediction

The Hawks were superb in eventually staving off the Suns on the Coast last week. Gold Coast, despite their woes in the last month, had been 11-3 across the past two seasons at People First Stadium so the Hawks win was certainly no fluke.

Jai Newcombe has taken his game to another level since becoming captain, while Tom Barrass’ resumption immediately made an impact.

From a Greater Western Sydney perspective, where are we at?

Honestly, it’s been a nightmare tipping the Giants this season…

Not that far removed from booting 14 goals in 30 minutes against the Lions, the Giants have been nothing short of awful since.

And this one will be no easier at The ‘G against a side playing some of the most electric football in the country.

We expect the Hawks' to take the win in this one – even if GWS manage to pull out the form they showed against Brisbane a few weeks ago.

Head-to-head prediction: Hawthorn Hawks by 23 points.

First Goal Scorer Prediction

Nick Watson is sitting in third on the Coleman Medal tally after 16 rounds.

With Jack Gunston out, Watson becomes the main goal-kicking threat for the Hawkies. We like The Wizard to turn on the magic early in front of the home crowd.

Nick Watson to bag the first of a few in this one.

Betting tip: Nick Watson.

Most Disposals Prediction

A loss here puts a nail in the coffin of GWS as they fall further adrift of the top 10. One thing we know for sure is that Clayton Oliver will go out on his sword.

The players will be consciously aware of the precarious position they find themselves in just two months outside of finals.

Clayton Oliver has the experience to put in his best performance when the team needs it the most. Also, there is the fact he’s averaging 31.5 disposals per game this year.

Win, lose or draw we have Clarry for most disposals in this one.

Betting tip: Clayton Oliver.

Odds are subject to change. *

Hawthorn Hawks vs GWS Giants Predicted Teams

Hawthorn Hawks Predicted Team List

FB: Jarman Impey, Josh Battle, James Sicily

HB: Josh Weddle, Tom Barrass, Karl Amon

C: Harry Morrison, Will Day, Massimo D'Ambrosio

HF: Jack Ginnivan, Mabior Chol, Dylan Moore

FF: Nick Watson, Mitch Lewis, Blake Hardwick

FOLL: Lloyd Meek, Jai Newcombe, Josh Ward

I/C: Bailey Macdonald, Ned Reeves, Cam Mackenzie, Connor Macdonald, Cameron Nairn

GWS Giants Predicted Team List

FB: Jayden Laverde, Sam Taylor, Connor Idun

HB: Lachie Ash, Lachie Whitfield, Harry Himmelberg

C: Ryan Angwin, Clayton Oliver, Harvey Thomas

HF: Jake Stringer, Aaron Cadman, Phoenix Gothard

FF: Toby Bedford, Jesse Hogan, Toby Greene

FOLL: Kieren Briggs, Brent Daniels, Finn Callaghan

I/C: Joe Fonti, Leek Aleer, Stephen Coniglio, Conor Stone, Callum Brown

Hawthorn Hawks vs GWS Giants Match Details

Date: Friday, June 26, 2026.

First Bounce: 7:40pm AEST

Location: MCG, Melbourne

How to Watch: Channel 7, Fox Footy/Kayo Sports