Mitch Lewis kicks a goal during Hawthorn's round 17 match against Adelaide at Marvel Stadium on July 10, 2022. Picture: AFL Photos

HAWTHORN forward Mitch Lewis does not need knee surgery, but the Hawks are considering whether their spearhead is a "viable option" for the rest of the season.

Key forward Lewis has enjoyed a breakout season for the Hawks with 37 goals from 15 matches, but was forced out of their clash with St Kilda early after jarring his knee.

While the Hawks (7-12) are already out of finals contention with only three rounds remaining, they hope to have Lewis available again as they target a strong finish to the season.

"He keeps landing on his knee and he's got a bit of a flare up in there," said Hawks coach Sam Mitchell.

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"When he lands on it sometimes it comes good and settles down quickly and sometimes it takes a little bit longer.

"He just needs some rest, he doesn't need surgery or anything like that.

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"He certainly won't play this week but we'll assess it next week to see how much settling there has been, and whether or not he's going to be a viable option for the last two games."

Ben McEvoy will line up for his 250th game after overcoming a neck fracture suffered in a training mishap in March.

Ben McEvoy fires out a handball during the R20 clash between Hawthorn and St Kilda at Marvel Stadium on July 30, 2022. Picture: AFL Photos

The Hawks captain has played four matches since returning from the serious injury and will be crucial against Gold Coast with emerging ruckman Ned Reeves ruled out for the season following a shoulder reconstruction earlier this week.

Dual-premiership ruckman McEvoy has played 158 matches for the Hawks after moving to the club from St Kilda at the end of 2013.

"I'm so happy that he gets there after what has been a tough year for him," Mitchell said.

FUTURE UNCLEAR Hawks captain yet to make a call on 2023 and beyond

"He's had a great career and to be able to celebrate that with him down in Tassie will be fantastic.

"For him to play this year at all is such a credit to him and the work that he's put in, so to be able to celebrate such a big milestone is going to be outstanding."

The Hawks play the Suns (9-10) in Launceston on Saturday, then face finals contenders Richmond and the Western Bulldogs.