SYDNEY Swans defender Nick Smith can't wait to get back onto the MCG this weekend against Melbourne, in what will be the club's first visit since being thrashed in last season's Grand Final by Hawthorn.

Favourites heading into the 2014 decider, the Swans were outclassed in stunning fashion, as the Hawks charged to back-to-back flags with a 63-point win.

Smith said despite the horror showing in last year’s decider, the Swans were always glad to get back to the home of footy.

"It's always good to play on the 'G - we've had some good memories there and some bad ones, but I think that’s behind us, and we're really looking forward to this weekend," Smith said.

The Swans play the Demons on Saturday night, and are back at the same venue a fortnight later to meet Hawthorn, but Smith hasn't penciled that round-eight clash into his diary.

"We just look after this week first, and concentrate on the Hawks when we have to," Smith said.

Smith is every chance of lining up on mercurial Demons livewire Jeff Garlett. The former Blue has been dangerous  in his first season since crossing from Carlton but hasn't had his kicking boots on - managing 10.13 for the season.

"I think they've got a few good small forwards down there and he's definitely one of them. He's one of the quicker guys running around for sure," Smith said.

Smith believes Melbourne is a far different prospect in 2015 than previous years, and denies any suggestion the Dees are an easy target for the Swans after two straight losses.

"I reckon they've been going OK - (they are) definitely improving from year to year, so we'll have our work cut out for us this week," Smith said.

"They've been really competitive, they dropped off in the second half last week, but every year under Roosy (Demons coach Paul Roos) I think they’ve been improving and they’ve continued to do that this year."

Young star Isaac Heeney was a notable absentee from the club's training session on a sun-drenched SCG on Tuesday, as he recovers from an ankle injury.

Key position player Sam Reid was on light duties and trained away from the main group after his late withdrawal with a tight calf last week.

Both are expected to train Thursday in the club's main session in a bid to play against Melbourne.