An injection of youth has turned Adelaide into one of the quickest teams in the competition.

The Crows fielded nine players 23 years of age or younger in their 56-point demolition of premiership favourites Greater Western Sydney at Adelaide Oval last Sunday.

Wayne Milera (19), Charlie Cameron (22) and Rory Atkins (22) added pace to the midfield and allowed the Crows to blow the opposition off the park.

"It's one of our assets, there's no doubt about that," Crows midfielder David Mackay said.

"The recruiting team has tried to put a bit of focus on that area because it's so important.

"Having said that, ultimately it's how quick you move the ball and that can determine how quick you look as a team."

Outstanding halfback Rory Laird (23) – who had a career-high 40 possessions -  forwards Troy Menzel (22), Riley Knight (22) and Mitch McGovern (22), ball magnet Matt Crouch (21) and defender Jake Kelly (22) all had an impact.

Leg speed was an area where the Crows struggled against the elite teams last year.

"We've seen guys like Milera and Atkins and Cameron that are really young that have added that energy and speed to us," Mackay said.

"To have a number of guys roll through there and stay fresh is really important."

The Crows have now turned their focus to Saturday's game with Hawthorn at the MCG.

Mackay said it was important the Crows didn't get ahead of themselves after defeating the Giants.

"It was four points on the weekend, this week is worth the same and that's the reality of it," he said.

"If we look too far forward, then what happened on the weekend is not going to mean anything.

"We'll just concentrate on this week."

The Hawks are licking their wounds after their round one loss to Essendon, but will have former captain Luke Hodge back after his club-imposed suspension.

"He's an absolute champion and it really does help their team out," Mackay said.

"We'll focus a bit of time on them and the way they play, but ultimately it's about how we execute our game plan.

"If we can do that, we can be competitive with every team in the comp."

The Crows are set to regain skipper Taylor Walker, who is in line to return from a hamstring injury.

"If Tex is ready to go, unfortunately we're going to have someone who is a bit unlucky," Mackay said.

"Tex will be a great help with his leadership and his performance."