HAWTHORN'S quest for a record-equalling fourth successive premiership has been dealt another blow with ruckman Jonathon Ceglar to undergo a knee reconstruction.

Adding injury to the insult of a comprehensive 25-point loss to the West Coast at Domain Stadium on Friday night, the Hawks announced on Saturday night that scans had shown Ceglar had ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee.

Just hours earlier, the Eagles revealed their star big man Nic Naitanui would also go under the knife after tearing the ACL in his left knee.

Remarkably, both relatively innocuous incidents took place in the same vicinity within five minutes of each other in a disastrous third quarter that could have far-reaching consequences for both clubs. 

It meant Ceglar, 25, will remember his 50th AFL game for all the wrong reasons.

The mishap might also rob him of his chance to play in a premiership, having been overlooked for previous Grand Finals.

The 204cm beanpole had become a valuable commodity given his tapwork and his ability to pinch-hit as a key forward.

This season he had played 18 games – the best effort in his four seasons with the Hawks – and had averaged 11 possessions and 22 hitouts.

Hawthorn football operations manager Chris Fagan expressed disappointment on behalf of Ceglar and the club.

"Jon's been an important player for us and has really stepped up in the absence of David Hale this season," Fagan said in a statement.

"It’s very disappointing for Jon, particularly so close to finals.

"He's a resilient bloke and I have no doubt he will be determined to attack his rehab and get back to footy as soon as he can.

"Whilst Jon plays an important role in the side, we are confident others will take their opportunities and step up to cover his absence.”