AARON Sandilands says his excellent early-season form is a direct result of one of his best-ever summers. 

The three-time All Australian ruckman was outstanding in the Dockers' 70-point demolition of Collingwood in round one. 

He had 39 hit-outs, took seven marks, and collected 19 disposals to continue on his dominant form from last year's finals series. 

Sandilands has battled injury over the past few seasons, managing just 38 of a possible 72 matches since the start of 2011. But he says the continuity he enjoyed over this pre-season is a big reason for his form. 

"It's hard to rank it, but it's up there," Sandilands said. 

"It's been good just to get the full pre-season and summer over. And then being able to get four games of footy in before the season started has really helped me this year, going in with a bit of match fitness."

Sandilands, 31, has signed a one-year contract extension that will see him continue into 2015. The 211cm giant says his body and mind are in great shape. 

"The hunger for the game and the hunger to be part of a successful side is still there," Sandilands said.

"I'm confident the body will stand up and get through it."

Ross Lyon was critical of the Dockers' stoppage work during the opening half against the Magpies, saying they were a touch predictable due to Sandilands' ruck dominance. 

Sandilands says it is something he needs to be conscious of, and adjust his approach during matches. 

"Sides do a lot of homework and prepare and try to get in our hit-to areas," Sandilands said. 

"It's important we keep mixing up the areas we go to and try to be as unpredictable as possible." 

Zac Clarke could possibly reunite with Sandilands this week after a strong performance in the WAFL, having recovered from his freak pre-season knee injury. 

But Sandilands believes Clarke's return isn't guaranteed given Jack Hannath's performance against Collingwood. 

"(Zac) performed pretty well on the weekend so I'm sure he'll put his hand up," Sandilands said. 

"He's an amazing athlete. 

"I'm sure he'll be better for the run on the weekend and he'll be keen to get out there as soon as he can.

"He's an important player for the footy club and he's looking pretty good."