The best forward of his generation is set to renew acquaintances with great rival Alex Rance, but the dream match-up will hinge on what role the Swans have earmarked for Franklin on Saturday.

The forward 50 is where Franklin is most dangerous, however Rance is also most comfortable deep in defence where his ability to read the play allows him to launch counterattacks.

Franklin also has the athleticism to play higher up the ground where he would meet a less-accomplished opponent, such as David Astbury or Dylan Grimes, but would be further away from goal. One thing is for certain, Rance will not follow him.

"Where Lance plays dictates who gets him," Hardwick said. "Lance is incredibly damaging up forward, he's also incredibly damaging up the ground, we'll have our plans in place for where he plays both.

"What I do know is Alex is a fantastic player, in career-best form again, three-time All Australian, I'm prepared to back in my guy every day of the week.

"I'll back any of our key defenders versus Buddy. David Astbury is in terrific form, as is Dylan Grimes. All three guys are really putting their hand up on getting Buddy at any stage."

The Swans destroyed Richmond when they met in round 23 last year on their way to a grand final appearance, but much has changed since. The Tigers were in disarray then but are now vying for a top-four berth, while the Swans are battling to resurrect their season.

Hardwick believes the Swans' recent form is a truer gauge of their ability, rather than their six-game losing streak at the start of the campaign.

"They're a form team of the competition; you can totally disregard their first six weeks," Hardwick said.

"They've got all their personnel back now. Over the last five weeks they're 4-1. We've got a really tough contest in front of us, their contested ball and tackle game is back."