Returning to a more familiar role in attack for North Ballarat, Smith copped a stray arm to the face late in the first quarter against Sandringham and took no further part in the game.
"We're hopeful he'll only miss the one week," North development coach John Lamont said.
The unfortunate incident put a sour note on what was otherwise a dominant display from the reigning premiers.
The Roosters kept their opponents to just one goal after quarter-time and adapted much better in the windy and rainy conditions.
David Hale (10 possessions, 34 hit-outs) was again prevalent in the ruck and formed a lethal combination with Orren Stephenson.
"Haley controlled the stoppages with some good ruck-work and follow-ups. We would have liked him to have more influence up forward but it certainly wasn't a day for marking players."
Named as first emergency for North Melbourne, Matt Campbell (10 possessions, 10 tackles) played just under a half, but still managed to make an impact.
"Matt's pace and pressure was really good today. It was fantastic that he could generate so many scoring opportunities in tough conditions."
Lamont was also pleased with the performances of Marcus White (20 possessions, 6 inside 50's) and Corey Jones (21 possessions, 2 goals).
"Marcus has been really reliable in defence in the past couple of weeks. He kept his opponents under control throughout the entire day."
"Corey worked really hard to keep the ball in the Roosters' forward line. He only kicked the two goals, but his pressure was fantastic too with six tackles."
Sandringham 2.0 2.0 3.3 3.3-21
North Ballarat 2.4 2.7 4.9 9.13-67
North Ballarat
Goal Kickers: C. Jones 2, D. Micallef 2, N. Couch, R. McKenzie, I. Smith, O. Stephenson, C. Benjamin
Best Players: S. Clifton, O. Stephenson, N. Couch, M. Greig, R. McKenzie, D. Micallef
Sandringham
Goal Kickers: B. Howard, S. Tregear, N. Sautner
Best Players: S. Gaertner, T. Lynch, B. Howard, T. Walsh, C. Irving, D. Archer
