Adelaide wingman Rory Atkins has pressed the reset button on his season, and admits it took a stint in the SANFL to restore some much-needed edge to his game.

The 24-year-old was one of the Crows' best in Showdown 45, collecting 29 possessions (22 contested), 11 marks and five tackles.

In the four games since being recalled to the side he's averaged 24 disposals – he was averaging just 14 and 1.6 tackles in the five games before being dropped.

Atkins said the two-week stint in the state league side kept him on his toes.

"You kind of forget what works for you and what kind of footy you can play, and you go back there (the SANFL) and it kind of peps you up a bit," he said.

"I enjoyed that, but as much as I was trying to enjoy it, I didn't want to stay down there for long at all.

"I see myself back in the team playing some decent footy, knowing that it is AFL footy – you can't take it for granted, you just can't fall into the motions and think you'll be selected each week."

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Atkins' improved form has coincided with Adelaide's late surge towards the top eight.

The Crows remain in 12th spot on the ladder despite their thrilling three-point win over the Power, but are still a chance to play finals if they win their remaining three games.

Atkins was philosophical about the club's precarious position.

"There's about three or four teams every year that are in that sort of situation. We've been lucky enough not to be in that situation for the last three to four years, but we see ourselves in that this year," he said.

"Next week we've got GWS who are rolling, and we've got them in Canberra where they play a bit of footy … I've never played there myself.

"Another good challenge to see where this group can go."

The Crows have faced a challenging run with injuries this year – a corked calf for Daniel Talia is the latest setback – but they could regain Mitch McGovern and Richard Douglas for their round 21 clash against the Giants.

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Against Port, Brodie Smith returned to the side after suffering a knee injury in last year's finals series.

Atkins said it lifted his spirits seeing the defender back on the park.

"I just loved having Brodie back. He's one of my best mates at the club and just having him out there, just loving running around with him, seeing the '33' out there … he adds another dimension," Atkins said.