WATCHING St Kilda's round one win felt bizarre for Hawthorn recruit Ben McEvoy.

McEvoy caught the closing stages of St Kilda's 17-point win over Melbourne at Launceston Airport, following the Hawks' triumph over the Brisbane Lions.

"That was probably weirder than me playing in a Hawks jersey was watching the boys run around, but it was good to see them get a win first up," McEvoy told AFL.com.au.

"Knowing how tough it was last year, it was really good for them to be able to kick-off the year with a win."

The other player involved in the ruckman's shock trade, Shane Savage, gathered 10 touches in an upset win over the Demons and said he would never forget playing a part in the Saints' upset victory

"First game to go out there and get the win was pretty great," Savage said.

"The pre-season paid-off for all the boys, we had a really hard time in Colorado and really bonded well as a group.

"So to come out in round one, as the underdogs as well, and get the win was quite special."

McEvoy was touted as the next St Kilda captain before the Hawks swooped on the 24-year-old last October, in exchange for 185cm midfielder Savage and pick No. 18.

It's early days, but already the swap has benefited both clubs.

St Kilda used pick 18 to snare Luke Dunstan in last year's draft and the 19-year-old was among his team's best as he earned the round one NAB AFL Rising Star nomination.

At just 23 years old, Savage is still approaching his football prime. He was an emergency for last year's Grand Final, but he believes the ultimate success is still achievable at the Saints.

"I obviously understood where St Kilda were at, they were a young group rejuvenating and regenerating," Savage said of his move to Seaford.

"I wanted to come in and be a part of that journey. I came across and left a little bit of success to be a part of what I think will be a successful club in the future."

McEvoy, on the other hand, has slotted straight into a team chasing its third flag in seven seasons.

The 200cm big man adds even more firepower to Hawthorn's forward arsenal, on top of his ruck ability.

McEvoy had 22 hit-outs on his Hawks debut, and booted a goal from 13 disposals.

"It's probably a change from how I've played in the past, but it's good to be able to push forward and have a little bit more of a licence," McEvoy said.

"I don't think we played our best footy, but it was nice to get a win and sing the song – that was great."

McEvoy will get his first taste of the famous Hawthorn versus Essendon rivalry on Friday night at Etihad Stadium, while Savage and the Saints will face GWS on Saturday.