Fast forward to 2009 and the man in the no.9 is still there, but struggling for the same impact.
Will we ever see Nick Malceski return to his old form, and what impact has radical knee reconstruction surgery using a synthetic graft had on his confidence?
"I've been looking at many different things but I've been unable to pinpoint anything as to why my form hasn't returned," Malceski told afl.com.au.
"I have gone back to what I was doing in 2007 and that hasn't worked, but I feel I took a step forward in the game against North Melbourne in my one-on-one work and I found more of the footy, which I have struggled with at senior level.
"It is great that the coaching staff have faith in me, and hopefully I can turn it around this week."
The 24-year-old averaged 21 disposals a match in 2007 and was the catalyst for many attacking moves. He also kicked 14 goals and averaged more than six marks and almost three tackles a match.
In 2009, Malceski is averaging 15 disposals a game without having the same influence. His marking and tackle rates are half of those two years ago, and he has managed only five goals despite being used in the forward line of late.
"I feel great and have never trained better," Malceski said.
"I've done everything off field that I could do to stay in tip top shape so it is up to me to get back to the form of 2007."
The coaching staff, too, has been unable to come up with an answer, moving Malceski all around the field in order to help him find more of the footy.
"I have played in most positions this year and spent a bit of time in the backline against Essendon, which felt good, but I will probably spend more time in the forward line pushing up the ground or on the wing so I can get more run into my legs," he said.
Malceski was convinced he still had the same strength and durability in his legs.
"My body is 100 per cent fine and I don't even think about my knee any more. It is just that I haven't been in form or got to the form that I know I am capable of. I am confident I will get there."
And Malceski believed there were no logical reasons why he couldn't turn his form around and the Swans couldn't make the eight.
"I have total faith in my body and in the Swans to make the eight this year," he said.
