Hawthorn and the Western Bulldogs will be without young midfielders Cam Mackenzie and Ryley Sanders for its Opening Round clashes as they enter concussion protocols.

Hawthorn's Harry Morrison kicked a loose ball into the face of Sanders, smashing into his face, leaving him dazed.

The former Pick 6 hit the ground, and came to the bench to be assessed.

He will be unavailable for next week's game against Brisbane at the Gabba.

"He was unfortunate to get a little knock at the end of the game there, which he's obviously getting assessed for, but he's shown some good signs," Bulldogs development coach Jarryn Geary said.

"He had a little bit of a hiccup at the back end of last year but he's a young, developing player who wants to put his best foot forward.

"Tonight he showed the quality that he can be and we're hopeful he's going to have a real positive future for us."

Mackenzie will be ruled out at least for the next 10 days, after a tackle gone wrong on Western Bulldogs tall Jordan Croft sent him straight to the club doctors.

Mackenzie copped a cut on the chin.

The former top-10 pick was poised to take a prominent role in the midfield given the departure of James Worpel and the absence of Will Day.

Mackenzie won't be available for selection against GWS.

The Hawks may also worry about co-captain Jai Newcombe's dangerous tackle on Ed Richards.

Newcombe is tipped to receive a fine, but can count himself lucky given Richards returned to play, despite being dumped in a vulnerable position.

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