RETIRING GWS champion Steve Johnson is likely to be rested next week against West Coast as the Giants look to manage the 34-year-old ahead of a finals campaign.

Johnson, who announced on Thursday he will be retiring at seasons’ end, had his knee on ice after the Giants' 48-point win over the Western Bulldogs on Friday night.

He has struggled at times with injuries this season, and with just two games remaining in the home and away season, against the Eagles and his former side Geelong, coach Leon Cameron confirmed he would need a week off.

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"He did really well to play this week, we were a little concerned with the six-day break," Cameron said.

"Devon Smith's knee has flared up as well so [Johnson] put his hand up and said he was right to go. I thought he moved around pretty well considering the six-day break, but we've got to make sure we manage his time and that might be next week he might not play.

"There's no doubt he'll want to play the last game down at Geelong, but we've got to keep monitoring it.

The 290-game veteran has missed just five games this season.

Cameron said he was happy with the way the club had managed the three-time Geelong premiership player in the second half of the season.

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Johnson had 13 disposals and four tackles against the Bulldogs, but looked dangerous at times despite not kicking a goal.

Cameron said his big-game expertise would be critical come finals.

"He loves big moments and I thought at times he had some really crucial moments for us," Cameron said.