THE SYDNEY Swans will explore relatively uncharted waters against Port Adelaide, lining up without Lance Franklin and Kurt Tippett for just the second time in its twin towers' era.

Both forwards will serve one-week suspensions after being found guilty of rough conduct (Franklin) and striking (Tippett) against Richmond last weekend.

However, the evidence suggests the club's fans can remain confident as they stream into the SCG on Thursday night.

Swans can soar without Buddy: Hinkley

Since Franklin's arrival in the Harbour City last year the Swans have only played without both key forwards once – against the Brisbane Lions in round seven.

But although the sample size is miniscule, it's certainly encouraging.

The Swans slaughtered the Lions, with Adam Goodes booting three majors in the 79-point win.

In truth, they had no issue performing without Franklin at all last year, winning two of the three games missed by the megastar; the single loss by just three points to Richmond in round 23.

It's been a similar story without Tippett since his signing ahead of the 2013 season.

He's missed 24 games since crossing from Adelaide, of which the Swans have lost just seven.

In the two games he played without 'Buddy' last season, Tippett returned just three goals – the Swans relying on an even spread of goal kickers to force scoreboard pressure.

And so they will against the Power.

In that game against the Lions in round seven last season the Swans had 12 goal kickers – more than at any other point in their campaign.

History suggests a repeat performance in front of goal should get the job done again.