The prospect of climbing off the bottom of the AFL ladder won't serve as motivation for Richmond in a clash with North Melbourne that could decide the destination of this year's wooden spoon - and the No.1 draft pick.

The Tigers and Kangaroos both take 2-17 records into Saturday's encounter at Marvel Stadium, with the loser tipped to finish last.

Only third-from-bottom West Coast (3-16) is within reach.

Despite the likely fallout from their clash, Yze echoed Kangaroos coach Alastair Clarkson's sentiments in declaring ladder positions irrelevant this week.

"We haven't spoken about where we sit on the ladder - we've spoken about the way we want to play," Yze said on Friday.

"We feel elements of our game have been really strong over the last couple of weeks, but we just haven't been able to play a full four quarters.

"We're planning to do so (on Saturday) and we know the Kangas will be pumped and up for the fight, so we can't wait to get started.

"(Winning) is always important. That's what we play and coach for and that's what our supporters want.

"We're in the process of trying to train hard and finish the season off the right way and we expect to win every game."

North Melbourne has been lauded for its improved showings since the mid-season bye, while Richmond has suffered six consecutive losses by an average margin of 41.8 points.

The Tigers have been bolstered for a winnable contest by the return of experienced trio Dustin Martin, Toby Nankervis and Jack Graham from injuries.

Key midfielder Tim Taranto has also been cleared to play after being subbed out last week for a recurrence of the back injury he battled during his time at GWS.

Superstar Martin will play for the first time in five weeks after overcoming a back complaint.

"Dusty's in a really good spot," Yze said.

"He's trained for a week and a half and got some quality sessions in, so he's ready to go."