Melbourne coach Simon Goodwin says Clayton Oliver has turned his life around "significantly" following the AFL star's well-documented struggles.

Oliver had an encouraging start to the season in last Thursday night's 22-point loss to Sydney at the SCG.

There was speculation the Demons could trade him after last season and he also needed time away from the club over the summer because of his off-field problems.

Teammate Christian Petracca admitted this week he thought during the off-season Oliver might leave Melbourne.

But Goodwin is rapt with how well Oliver is doing on and off the field.

Asked before Thursday morning's training session how much he thought Oliver was turning his life around, Goodwin replied "significantly".

"You see a very healthy and happy person walking into your environment, training well, connecting with people, smiling and they're the things we've learned to love about Clayton," Goodwin said.

"We know we have a Clayton Oliver that we love and respect, and we know is going to produce some really strong football for us.

"We're incredibly happy with how he's tracking."

Goodwin added that Oliver will only improve as he plays more matches.

"He had his possessions, no doubt about that, and he got better as the game went on," Goodwin said.

"We still want to see more of what he brings to the contest and how he gets out of contest.

"That's a big part of his game. But first game back, we can't ask for much more. He delivered on everything he'd been working towards.

"He's just going to grow and get better."

The Demons will regain exciting utility Kysaiah Pickett (suspension) for Sunday afternoon's match against the Western Bulldogs at the MCG.

AAP