While Wawrinka has spent just shy of eight hours on court across his opening two matches, fourth seed Djokovic has taken a more direct route as he aims to conserve energy in his bid for a record 25th Grand Slam singles title.
The Serb only dropped seven games in a 6-3 6-2 6-2 victory over Italian qualifier Maestrelli and this is the first time he has not dropped a set in the first two rounds at Melbourne Park since 2023.
“I didn’t know much about him until a few days ago – it happens more often than not these days,” Djokovic said of world number 141 Maestrelli.
“The respect is always there and I didn’t underestimate him. He’s got a big serve and a big game, only lacking a bit of experience.
“He’s got the game to go far and high in the world rankings and I wish him that.”
Croatia’s Cilic was similarly brisk against Canadian Shapovalov, winning 6-4 6-3 6-2 in just over two hours.
Reflecting on the continued success of veteran players, Cilic said: “We are all aware that sports are moving forward, there is more science in everything.
“Everyone is individual but, overall, I feel we are in such a great time where guys can still play – at 35, 36, 37 – great tennis.
“With Novak, he’s taking care of his body so well. I believe these younger generations are here to learn from these experiences.”
Cilic will face 12th seed Casper Ruud in round three, while Djokovic will take on 30-year-old Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp.