Key forward Jack Riewoldt and midfielder Dustin Martin remain out of contract beyond this season, with money reported to be a sticking point in negotiations between the club and both players.
Hardwick said the ongoing negotiations were not a distraction for the Tigers and he remained confident both would re-sign.
However, Richmond could no longer just focus on keeping its best players at the club at the expense of others as the depth on its list grows.
"We're probably at a stage now where we don't have to overpay our players," Hardwick said on Thursday.
"Previously, when we were a struggling club, we had to keep the talent and pay them accordingly.
"Now we're at the stage where we've got to manage our salary cap a lot better.
"We're certainly looking to keep our talent but also bring talent in to help us win. It's a very fine balancing act."
Damian Barrett's view
Richmond travels to the SCG to face the Sydney Swans on Sunday, looking to win its first game at the venue since 2004.
After an impressive win against Fremantle at the MCG in round 17, Hardwick said the Tigers were looking forward to taking on "one of the best contested teams in the competition".
"It's going to be a contested game, which we certainly like, and we're looking forward to that style of footy," he said.
"They've got a formidable ruck outfit in (Shane) Mumford and (Mike) Pyke, who's been a revelation, and their on-ball contingent is outstanding.
"The thing we've got is a little bit of luck with some quality players out.
"So we've certainly probably met them at a time where their talent is not to the level we know it could be."
With the Swans boasting a deep and talented midfield that was on full display against West Coast last Sunday, Hardwick said on-ball battles would be crucial at the SCG.
He said Daniel Jackson, who played a key run-with role on Brownlow medallist Gary Ablett a fortnight ago, would likely be handed a job on one of the Swans' stars.
"I think Dan's done that job throughout the year anyway and still managed to get a lot of the ball himself," Hardwick said.
"It's going to be a great contest throughout the midfield and the reality is whoever's midfield gets on top wins the game.
"We'll be hoping our players get the job done."
Stoppage specialist Shane Tuck will come under consideration at selection after winning 25 possessions, including 11 clearances, with Coburg last week.
Hardwick said the match committee needed to find a way to "manipulate the side" to make room for the midfielder.
"From a clearance and contested ball point of view last week we were very good," he said.
"Does Shane make us better in that area? Of course he does. But we've got to make sure we get what's best for the side."
Nathan Schmook is a reporter for AFL Media. Follow him on Twitter @AFL_Nathan
