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Coach David Noble revealed Tarryn Thomas was struggling after a death in his family following criticism of the young Kangaroo after Sunday's loss to Adelaide.

North Melbourne coach David Noble revealed Tarryn Thomas was struggling after the death of his grandmother following criticism of the youngster's effort in the Kangaroos 57-point loss to Adelaide.

Thomas finished last on the possession count with just three in his bottom-placed side's heavy loss in Hobart on Sunday.

"(Tarryn) has had a bereavement in his family this week and has really struggled. His nan passed away," Noble said after the match.

"He wanted to play for his nan and I'm sure he's disappointed with the game that he put forward.

"He won't be flying home with us ... he'll be going back to support his family."

During commentary on FoxFooty, two-time North Melbourne premiership winner David King said Thomas did not look focused.

"What we've seen today has been a player that's completely disinterested in this game of football. That's a harsh comment, but I've watched him closely," King said.

Noble said he didn't hear King's comments but could understand the criticism. Thomas, 22, was returning to the top grade after being dropped for not meeting training standards.

"There is some circumstances around it but when you get on the field, there's a level I think you need to bring. But he (Thomas) struggled," Noble said.

Following the club's 12th-straight loss, Noble is set to speak this week with long-time AFL club administrator Geoff Walsh, who was recently appointed in a short-term advisory role.

"I feel it'll be a reinforcement of what we're currently doing. But if there's something fresh ... then we're all for getting better," Noble said.

"None of us like where we're at at the moment."