BRISBANE Lions ruckman Stefan Martin says the strength and honesty of Chris Fagan's communication is having a big impact on the Lions' players early in his tenure.

The Lions are 1-1 heading into Sunday's game against St Kilda at Etihad Stadium, and Martin says players know where they stand with the new coach – and they like it.

Despite an upset win over Gold Coast and a competitive loss to Essendon, Fagan has dropped experienced duo Ryan Bastinac and Ryan Harwood to play the Saints.

"I think 'Fages' is really big on being honest and running a transparent program, so you're always going to know where you're at," Martin said.

"The blokes that got dropped will be told exactly why they got dropped, and as players, that's all you can ask for."

Speaking earlier in the week, Fagan said "honourable losses" were not something he wanted the Lions to settle for after blowing a chance to beat the Bombers.

Martin, a member of the leadership group, said it was something the players needed to hear.

"It is the trap you can fall into, especially with a young group," he said.

"We love that message.

"We go into every game this year aiming to win, and we weren't happy with losing that game. We thought we could have won it."

The ruckman said the Lions had to concentrate on winning the contested ball against St Kilda and would need to minimise the gap between their best and worst football.