MLS SuperDraft 2018: Mock Draft v2

Here is my second attempt at predicting the first round the MLS SuperDraft, following this past week's combine. Only six picks remain the same from a week ago. Five players who I had in the first round last time have fallen off the mock draft, including Jake Rozhansky, who opted out of the combine to sign with a club in Israel. 

Here it goes:

1. Los Angeles FC: D Joao Moutinho*
Previous Pick: Tomas Hillard-Arce
Moutinho has proven to be the best talent available in the draft. He has an exceptional left foot, and has the makings of a special player once he settles at a position. He could spend time at CB, LB, CM this season. He helps fill holes for the expansion side, and could be a key piece for years to come
2. Los Angeles Galaxy: F Francis Atuahene*
Previous Pick: Ema Twumasi
Atuahene has moved ahead of Twumasi on my board. Atuahene consistently threatened on the wing during the combine. He is great at finding space, and attacking defenders, but needs to work on his final ball. Atuahene is not quite as good of a prospect as Abu Danladi from a year ago; Danladi was much more lethal striking the ball towards goal. I don't expect LAG to hold onto the pick, but if they did, Atuahene would be the best attacker available. Hillard-Arce would be another solid pick as a potential CB anchor. 
3. DC United: F Jon Bakero
Previous Pick: Bakero
This pick stays the same. Here's what I said a week ago, 
"This pick may take many by surprise, but I think it's a perfect fit. Bakero is known as highly skilled college player, but lost in that description is his size. He's 6-3. The knock on Bakero, besides his lack of athleticism, is his lack of a true position. But, I don't see why he can't be a 9 for DC. He has the size, and he has the finishing ability to succeed. Bakero would also excel at connecting with his attackers: Acosta, Stieber, and Arriola. Not to mention former Wake Forest teammate, Ian Harkes. Bakero could also spell Acosta as a 10."
Bakero had an excellent combine, proving to be the most MLS ready player available in the draft. He isn't an out-and-out striker, but he is very crafty, skilled, and a good finisher to boot (pun intended). 
4. Impact Montreal: D Tomas Hillard-Arce
Previous Pick: Francis Atuahene
The Impact become big winners as Hillard-Arce falls to them at four, and he will help to replace the departed Ciman. THA had a less than stellar combine, but he should not fall farther than this position. He does not have as high an upside as some of the attackers in this draft, or Moutinho, but he should be a solid starter in MLS for years. Reports were THA aced team interviews as well. 
5. Minnesota United FC: F Chris Mueller
Previous Pick: Joao Moutinho
Minnesota would love for one of the defenders to fall to them, but neither will. That leaves a variety of attacking talents. I think Mueller is the best fit, considering the players already in Minnesota. Mueller performed well in the physical drills portion of the combine, and should be able to be a creative presence on the wing, or sitting behind Danladi and/or Ramirez.
6. Orlando City SC: F Mason Toye*
Previous Pick: Toye
Another pick that stays the same, Toye had a mixed performance at the combine. He has some of the highest upside of any player in the draft. Here's what I wrote last time:
Toye is 6-3, in the midst of his freshman year, and very good on the ball for his size. His name is coming off the board early. In fact, this may be way too low for him. Toye has high upside, and he's American. The American part is especially important in this draft (with so many of the top prospects taking up an international slot). Toye would fit well with Orlando, taking Cyle Larin's spot alongside Dom Dwyer. Toye is an even better parter up top for Dwyer than Larin. Larin and Dwyer occupy similar space, but Toye, despite having the frame of a target striker, likes to drift wide, and take defenders on the wing.
7. Impact Montreal: F Ema Twumasi*
Previous Pick: Justin Fiddes
Since they helped plug the gap on defense with their first pick, Montreal can take a high upside attacker here. Twumasi had a lackluster combine, but could be an impact talent for a team like Montreal. There's some debate whether Twumasi is best out wide, or centrally, here they can try him at both, and let him figure it out. 
8. New England Revolution: M Mo Adams*
Previous Pick: Adams
This pick is unchanged, although there is some chatter that New England will package their picks to move up, with Mason Toye looking like their intended target. I Mo Adams was late to the combine due to Visa issues. However, he showed up to play on the final day, proving he's the best CM available. Adams is the best ball-winner, and plays smart, constantly moving to provide a safe outlet for teammates. 
9. New England Revolution: D Tristan Blackmon
Previous Pick: Blackmon
Another pick that remains unchanged. Several full backs performed well during the combine, but Blackmon remains the best two-way player. There are others with a higher upside, but Blackmon should be able to contribute this year at either RB or CB. 
10: Real Salt Lake: F Ed Opoku*
Previous Pick: Chris Mueller
Real Salt Lake take the attacker with the most upside remaining. Opoku looked a tier below his fellow Right to Dream Generation Adidas compatriots, Atuahene and Twumasi. However, he has great speed, and is confident on the ball. He strengthens an already deep position for RSL.
11. FC Dallas: D Wyatt Omsberg
Previous Pick: Ken Krolicki
Wyatt Omsberg shocked everyone at the combine. He was the only player to record a top-five speed (30m dash) time, and a top-five agility time (shuttle run), and he did it at 6'4". Omsberg did alright on the field during the combine as well. He should be a high pick on Friday. 
12. San Jose Earthquakes: F Brian White
Previous Pick: Jon Gallagher
White outperformed a deep group of potential wingers. He showed good hustle on both ends, and quality on the ball. He scored a penalty, after earning the foul, and also set up a teammate for an assist. 
13. Sporting KC: D Brandon Bye
Previous Pick: Rafael Andrade Santos
With Abdul-Salaam gone, SKC could use more help at full back. Brandon Bye, a converted forward, represents the full back with, perhaps, the most upside in the draft. Attacking is obviously his forte; he will still need to work on the defensive end. 
14: Atlanta United: D Lucas Stauffer
Previous Pick: F Alan Winn
Lucas Stauffer was one of the biggest winners in the draft, playing well across the defensive line. Atlanta picks up a player capable of spelling multiple positions. Stauffer actually had his best game, while playing left back, although he is a natural right back. He  played the majority of the final two games on the right side of a back three. 
15: Chicago Fire: F Mohamed Thiaw
Previous Pick: Daniel Musovski
Chicago could use a forward behind Nikolic. Thiaw is a strong, 6'2", forward, who spent most of the combine on the wing. He had an uneven performance this past week, but showed some brilliant flashes with a variety of skills for a center forward. 
16: New York Red Bulls: D Mark Segbers
Previous Pick: Mohamed Thiaw
The Red Bulls grab one of several rising right backs. Segbers is a good athlete, and is in his element went getting forward, and attacking defenders. He will need to work on his 1v1 defending, but he's looked capable there. 
17. Vancouver Whitecaps: M Chris Lema
Previous Pick: Jake Rozhansky
The Whitecaps would do well to secure Lema, following the departure of Nosa. Lema controlled the game from the back nicely for his team. He distributes the ball nicely, and can even put a nice shot on goal. Lema is good on defense as well, but there are better ball-winners in this class. He is more of a combo 6-8 than a natural at either position. 
18. Sporting KC: F Mamadou Guirassy
Previous Pick: Brandon Bye
SKC need a striker, and they get one in Guirassy, who led the nation in scoring last year. He also had a tremendous combine. Vermes will love how hard Guirassy works throughout the game. Guirassy is a complete forward, as he's strong, good on the ball, can battle with CBs, and strikes the ball well.
19. New York City FC: F Daniel Musovski
Previous Pick: Gordon Wild
NYCFC need another forward, and although Musovski had a poor combine, he is still one of the best goal scorers in this draft. I initially had Gordon Wild here, and I still love that pick, but I think NYC goes with someone else. Musovski was played wide throughout the combine, and not given many opportunities centrally, where he thrives. 
20. Houston Dynamo: F Gordon Wild*
Previous Pick: Wyatt Omsberg
Wild had a terrible first game at the combine. However, he came back in the second and third, making some special plays. He looks like a natural on the right side, cutting to get onto his left foot. However, he was forced right several times, and put in some good crosses, and shots, with his weaker foot. Wild's best play came from his team's own half, where he won the ball, and put the ball on a dime across the pitch, hitting Atuahene in stride. 
21: Columbus [for now] Crew: D Justin Fiddes
Previous Pick: Chris Lema
Columbus lost two left backs (Francis and Raitala) this offseason. Fiddes is the best one in this draft. 
22: Seattle Sounders: M Alex Roldan
Previous Pick: Roldan
This pick stays the same. Roldan is versatile, and does a lot of things well. He had a solid combine, and looked like one of the best central midfielders in the class. 
23: Toronto FC: D Tim Kubel
Previous Pick: Kubel
This pick also stays the same. Kubel failed to stand out during the combine, but I don't care. He needed to prove he could defend well enough, and he defended ably. Unfortunately, he was stuck playing in a back three, because they were short central defenders, and that limited Kubel's opportunities. He never really came forward for this reason. Still, Toronto need to replace Beitashour, and Kubel is the best right wingback left (with Bye, Seghers, and Stauffer off the board). Kubel is still very good coming forward, and if given the opportunity he could be a dark horse rookie of the year candidate. 

MLS Combine Ups and Downs following Games 1 & 2

The first set of games of the MLS Combine are in the book. It's time to reflect, and take stock of what we've observed. Here's a look at my impressions of each player, and how their performance boosted, or deflated their stock. Most players participating in Friday's games are included, but not all of them. The truth is, it's probably better to be included as a "Stock Down" player than it is to be left off, because that means you left no impression at all. Players are organized by the team they are playing with during the combine. This is in no way a ranking, not all of the "Stock Up" players are first round picks.


Team Tango

Stock Up & Down:

D Joao Moutinho

Joao Moutinho gets a category all his own. Firstly, I believe his game one performance made it clear he's the decisive top talent in this draft. He's special. Moutinho's left foot is special. He made some very good plays going forward. However, he surged forward at every opportunity. This, at times, left HUGE gaps in defense, and put his team in jeopardy. He was caught out of position multiple times, allowing counter-attacks that put unnecessary pressure on his teammates Tomas Hillard-Arce, and goalkeeper, Eric Dick. He can not do that as a center back. He cared too much about his individual performance, that he could of cost the team. That tells me a lot about the player. He's not a leader. He is not a center back. Thankfully (I guess), most teams (reportedly) don't project him as a CB. I hope to see Moutinho play significant minutes at LB next game, since that's where many think he fits best. Personally, I think he could be a very good CM. That's basically the position he played this game, box-to-box CM.

Stock Up:

D Brandon Bye

Brandon Bye may have had the best two-way performance of any full back. He looked dangerous in the attack, which should not be a surprise considering his natural position. However, he also looked good in his own half with great recovery and marking. Bye was the big winner from Friday's performance tests (read mlssoccer.com's review here https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2018/01/13/wmus-brandon-bye-leads-way-mls-combine-performance-tests). Bye was the only player to place in the top ten in the 30m dash, shuttle run, and vertical jump. One concern I do have is Bye's ball striking, as his crosses failed in execution, but I'm not ready to dock him for it with such a small sampling.

M Oliver Shannon

This draft is weak on high-end central midfielders, and is begging for someone to leap into the foreground with their performance. Oliver Shannon may not have lept off the pitch and onto draft boards, but he took a nice step forward. Shannon had a good first half, showing a good ability to read opponents, and break up plays. He also made good decisions in distribution. Not a loud performance, but a good one.

F Chris Mueller

The biggest question surrounding Mueller entering the combine was can he transition to the wing, and be effective. He answered with an affirmative by way of the results of the performance testing. Mueller finished in the top-ten in the 30m dash, while besting the field in the 5-10-5 shuttle run. In fact, Mueller's 4.03s in the shuttle beat anyone from this year's or last year's combine. Mueller was deployed on the left of a 433 this game, and had a positive performance. I wouldn't call it special, but special is hard to come by. He showed off his ability on the ball, and flashed some pretty curl on his strikes, but he wasn't patient enough, and didn't work with teammates as well.

F Marc Steeves

There are a number of big target forwards in this draft. It's essential for each that they set themselves a part. Marc Steeves did his part to do so. He held play up nicely in the second half, and combined well with teammates. He played a nice through-ball to Opoku, who just happened to be a touch offsides.

Stock Even:

D Tomas Hillard-Arce

I saw Tomas Hillard-Arce on a “Stock Down” list earlier, and flipped. Did THA have a spectacular first game. No. However, his performance is being overblown. He was fine. Brandon Aubrey was supposed to be a top-five pick last year before suffering a dreadful combine. THA wasn't near that level. Yes, he was yellow carded after fouling Atuahene just outside the box. However, that was a good foul. Atuahene had already beaten Blackmon, what was THA supposed to do in that position. The rest of the match, Hillard-Arce was forced to compensate for Joao Moutinho continuously getting caught too far forward. Seriously. At times it seemed Tango was playing a 1243. Hillard-Arce did nothing to stand out next to Moutinho, or the other top talents, but he still looks like a solid MLS CB starting year 1.

D Tristan Blackmon

Blackmon had, perhaps, the toughest task assigned to anyone during the first round of matches: containing Francis Atuahene. Results were mixed. Atuahene certainly bested Blackmon several times, but overall, Blackmon kept the forward from causing damage. Blackmon had a few impressive tackles in the first half. The right back looked best going forward. On one occasion he dispossessed Atuahene and immediately attacked, holding off a defending, and finding the pass which led to a good shot. I've seen Blackmon on “stock down” lists too. Blackmon gave as much as he got, and considering he was matched up with a top-five prospect in this draft, that's just fine.

M Harry Cooksley

Cooksley is an interesting prospect. He isn't nearly good enough to be a 10 in MLS, and probably doesn't have the physical ability to play on the wing. So, he will have to prove he is capable of playing both ways as an 8. Unfortunately, he was positioned as a 10 (in front of Shannon and Pablo Aguilar) in the first half of his game today, where he played well. One particular play stands out where he led a break down the right, and curled a nice pass behind the central defenders to Boshua. I'm not any closer to knowing if he can be a successful 8 though.

D Niko de Vera

Many may say the Akron left back had a stellar first game, and saw his stock rise. That's going to be hard to argue against, because Niko de Vera had a very good match. However, improving his stock isn't just about performing well, it's about being a special player who can transition to the next level. De Vera seems smart, positionally sound, good going both ways. I bet he gets drafted. However, this full back class is deep, and many of them looked better than de Vera.

F Arthur Boshua

Boshua was blessed with sitting between Chris Mueller and Alan Winn in the first half of this match, with Joao Moutinho acting in the 10 role just behind him [I kid!]. He made for a good target. But, he didn't have enough quality on his chances. As I said above, this class is brimming with big 9's looking for an opportunity, and Steeves did more with his this game.

F Afonso Pinheiro

Yes, Pinheiro scored a poached goal from the right side in the second half, after a FK was headed away to his feet. It was a good ball. However, he seemed lost on the right side for much of the half.

Stock Down:

F Edward Opoku

This may seem harsh. Let me be clear, I am not saying Opoku played so bad that his stock is tumbling outside of the first round, or even outside the top-half of the first round. My biggest question for Opoku entering the combine was how does he compare to fellow Generation Adidas and Right to Dream prospects, Ema Twumasi and Francis Atuahene? Following the first round of matches, I would rank Opoku third of those three. He still looks like an electric prospect with a high upside. He looks more willing to combine with teammates than Atuahene. Opoku plays a little differently too, as he tries to get behind defenders rather than run at them with possession, which I like, and makes sense considering he graded as the fastest of the trio in the 30m dash (eighth overall).

M Alan Winn

Alan Winn is a first round talent. I've seen him as a fringe top-10 prospect on some boards. However, he was completely anonymous in his half of soccer. He also failed to stand out during the performance testing, seeing himself outperformed by similar players, Chris Mueller and Jon Gallagher.

Team X

Stock Up:

D Carter Manley

Carter Manley looked like the best right back on the defensive end. He uses his physicality well; he's strong and fast. He finished tied for second in the combine in the 30m dash. Manley was not very impressive going forward though. In fact, there were few occasions where he pushed into the attack. I wonder if CB is a potential role for Manley. He's not terribly undersized at 5'11”, and did finish in the top-five in the vertical jump to make up for his height. Manley reminds me of Odoi-Atsem from last year's draft. They performed similarly in the performance testing, and I remember Odoi-Atsem impressing me in his own half, and failing to impress going forward.

D Josh Morton

Josh Morton scored a goal on a header off a cross, following a short corner. It was a good goal. He played a good CB, sweeping up play well, and playing some good passes forward. Due to the lack of sure-thing center backs in this draft, those performing well could sky-rocket up boards.

F Will Bagrou

Will Bagrou was successful leading the line beside Atuahene. His positioning seemed pretty fluid up top, and often drifted wide, allowing Diego Campos to move inside. He combined well with teammates, and overall had an orderly performance.

M Paul Marie

Paul Marie is one of those central midfielders that took a step forward in game one. He delivered a great ball after receiving a short free kick, which Morton headed into goal. He constantly was around the ball, and made his presence known. He looks more capable of playing as an 8 than Cooksley, and is better attacking than someone like, Oliver Shannon (both of whom I mention, because I've already addressed them above).

Stock Even:

F Francis Atuahene

Atuahene only kept even? Am I crazy? Do I not know what I'm writing about? Well, that last part is true. I've seen many write that Atuahene was one of the most impressive players they saw during game one. That's fair, and they probably know far more about it than I do. However, Atuahene stayed level on my board. That's good! He still looks like a top-five prospect. He didn't do anything to make me believe he's worthy of the number one pick over Joao Moutinho though. I mean, let's not be crazy. Atuahene had a ton of hype behind him entering the combine; I believe too much hype. I don't think he's the second coming of Abu Danladi, at least not right away. Atuahene got into some great positions in this game, finding himself some shot opportunities, and he drew a FK on the edge of the box. But, the biggest knocks on him were evident as well. He doesn't combine with teammates; he tries to do it all on individual effort. He isn't the best striker of the ball. Based on this performance Atuahene is exactly the player I thought he was, and that's not the best player in this draft.

D Adam Morrison

The defender had some ups and downs. He made some very good tackles, but also was run around at times, and not properly positioned at others. Every CB receiving playing time has an opportunity to play their way into being selected, and possibly even sneaking into the first round. Morrison has good size, and some ability. He'll get more chances next week.

M Brian Iloski

Iloski found himself around the ball often in the first half. And looked decent taking free kicks. He's on my radar as a draft-able 8.

M Chris Lema

Lema was solid. He didn't do anything spectacular, but distributed well, while staying back and managing the midfield. I think Oliver Shannon did a little bit more to gain attention this game though.

F Mamadou Guirassy

Guirassy is an interesting player. He's a strongly built, 6'1”, forward, who looks light on his feet. He finished in the top-five in the 30m dash at 3.93s, although he did not perform in the in the top-ten in the shuttle run. Guirassy also showed good tenaciousness on defense too, playing on the wing.

F Diego Campos

Diego Campos received ample playing time due to Gordon Wild having to leave the game early. He was given freedom in the attack, playing both out wide, and drifting inside, often into a 10 position. Campos was extremely active while attacking; he was often the player on the ball pulling strings. I don't love his final ball, or his decision making in the positions he placed himself in.

Stock Down:

F Gordon Wild

I really like Gordon Wild. I was ready for him to take a step forward during the combine. He started off well, with good hold up play, before finding Atuahene out wide in space. Unfortunately, he left the game very early with a knock. That's not going to help him move up draft boards. I hope he makes it back for one, or both, of the final games.

Team Predator

Stock Up:

D Cory Brown

Cory Brown might have been the most impressive center back. He put on a fearless performance in the first half, taking on all attackers, especially 6'3”, Mason Towe, and 6'2”, Marcelo Acuna. Read the field well. Positioned well. Good tackling. Complete performance. Unfortunately, Brown is just 5'9”, so it may not matter how well he plays as a center back. In the second half he moved to left back, and was mostly anonymous. Still, he was very impressive in the first half, and maybe he can convince some team he can play CB...say in a back-three...say in Colorado. No matter what, Brown has everyone's attention after game one, and that's good.

F Jon Bakero

Jon Bakero may have been the best prospect, along with Joao Moutinho, to affirm his position. He played the first half as the center forward. From that position he was best drifting wide, and attacking defenders in 1 v 1 situations. He is so comfortable on the ball, and unafraid to dribble in tight spaces, surrounded by defenders. He's the most skillful player I saw on Saturday (take that with a grain of salt). Bakero was moved to the right side in the second half, and his stellar play continued. It's funny, when positioned centrally he did well drifting outside, and when positioned on the wing he did great coming inside. Bakero isn't going to be a traditional winger, and beat his man with his speed. However, he came inside, and read the defense beautifully. He tallied the first assist of the combine with a perfect through ball to Albert Ruiz who was cutting inside from the left side. Bakero was one of the biggest winners of the day.

M Manuel Cordeiro

This may seem like I'm backtracking. While, live-tweeting I specifically left Cordeiro off a list of most impressive players in the first game. However, just because I don't think he was one of the best of that match, and was overshadowed by the likes of Bakero and Brown (see above), doesn't mean his stock didn't rise. The truth is, Cordeiro wasn't really on my radar before, and now he is. That's progress. Cordeiro was very good in possession, and moved the ball well. He did nothing in particular that made you say, “wow,” but he didn't have to. Cordeiro is one of several players who need to answer the question: are they a MLS 8 or a USL 10? We'll see.

M Rafael Andrade Santos

Rafael Andrade Santos had a great first half. He was pulled the strings of dominate Predator team that dictated play. Andrade played from several spots in midfield, taking a few shots from just outside the box, and also operating further back as a deep-lying playmaker. It's as a deep-lying playmaker that he most intrigues me. Surprisingly, RAS didn't drift wide much. I would imagine teams want to see him tried as a wide player.

F Jordan Jones

Jones set the tempo for his team at the onset of the second half. He led the line, and led the press, showing leadership in directing those around him. Jones also scored on a header from a great ball delivered by Leon Schwarzer (who inexplicably I left absent from this post). Jones isn't as big as some of the other true-9s, he's 6'1”, but he did have a top-five shuttle time, and displayed some of the best intangibles.

D Justin Fiddes

Justin Fiddes ran the fastest 30-meter dash time of anyone in the combine, 3.84s. It was even faster than Jakob Nerwinski's class-best time of 3.87s a year ago. Fiddes was perhaps a little uneven in game. He found room on the overlap often in the first half, but couldn't put the ball in a dangerous position. However, he played great on defense, showing off incredible recovery speed.

D Markus Fjortoft

Markus Fjortoft was outperformed by the smaller, Cory Brown in the first half, but still managed to stand out. He was solid throughout, and even showed some class on the ball. At 6'5”, Fjortoft could be a mover with continued steadiness.

Stock Even:

F Albert Ruiz

Albert Ruiz scored the first goal of the combine. He scored following a great cutting run, and an even better through-ball to him from Bakero. Unfortunately, he was absent the majority of the second half. That's because the game was mostly played away from him, but isn't that kind of a problem?

D Mark Segbers

Mark Segbers is one of many forward players transitioning to full back. Segbers looked excellent going forward, slipping defenders, running past them, and making things happen deep in the oppositions half. He made one exceptional run into the box near the goal-line, making Wyatt Omsberg look silly, although his final ball wasn't great. Segbers' struggle was on defense, obviously. He looked pretty bad on the defensive end. It wouldn't surprise me to see Segbers drafted as a wide midfielder in the end, since he has that quality. It also wouldn't surprise me to see a team take a chance at him developing into an able full back in time.

M Thomas Vancaeyezeele

Vancaeyezeele was pushed into a prominent role in defensive midfield due to Mo Adams' absence. He did well, controlled the game. I know his name. I know more about him than I did a day ago. But, I don't think he overtakes Oliver Shannon or Chris Lema.

G Jeff Caldwell

Simply put, he looked like the best GK of the day, with Eric Dick just a little behind.

Team Nemeziz

Stock Up:

D Lucas Stauffer

Lucas Stauffer is one of the biggest winners of the day. He looked exceptional to start the second half, operating as a left back. He played good two-sided soccer, with tremendous work rate, but was most exciting going forward. Stauffer is a natural right back, but found success on the left side by coming short and passing the ball into the middle. I think that's a great understanding of his own abilities and limitations, and he didn't try and force the ball deeper on the flank (to cross) like he would on the right side. Stauffer eventually moved to central midfield, where he quieted.

D Graham Smith

Graham Smith had a great first half, showing off some of the best passes out of the back of any CB (perhaps, Moutinho excluded, but he wasn't really a CB, as I've stated). He also made some good stops on defense. Smith has good size, 6'3”, and is one of my biggest movers following the first round of games.

D Wyatt Omsberg

I don't think Wyatt Omsberg played particularly well. In fact, in game, he may have ranked fourth in his game alone: Smith, Brown, Fjotoft, then Omsberg. However, Omsberg tested extremely well in both the 30m dash, and the shuttle run. Omsberg finished tied for third in the 30m, 3.90s, and was tied for fourth in the shuttle. Considering his 6'4” size, that's extremely impressive. Regardless of how he plays, I think a team is going to flier on him in the first round. Those physical attributes really stand out.

F Jon Gallagher

It may seem as though Jon Gallagher played a quiet role this game. He operated on the right hand side in the first, and his counterpart, Brian White, tallied an assist in the same role in the second half. However, Gallagher did a lot of this I loved while on the pitch. He chose great runs. I consistently saw Gallagher running into space, while on the break. The problem was Marcelo Acuna refused to look his way, choosing to go to his right (where he had Generation Adidas prospects Mason Toye and Ema Twumasi) time-and-time again. Despite few opportunities, Gallagher was efficient on the ball, and did create a chance-or-two. I was most impressed with Gallagher's defensive work rate. Gallagher could be found defending deep in his half. I loved that. He's tenacious, and dispossessed Fiddes, springing counter-attacks. That's an import quality to have on the wing, transitioning to MLS.

F Ricky Lopez-Espin

Lopez-Espin scored Nemeziz lone goal, a header off Brian White's service. He had good movement, and finds space. Lopez-Espin tested as the combines best jumper, and at 6'2” could be a legitimate aerial threat.

Stock Even:

M Alex Roldan

I've seen some fawning over his performance. I merely thought he was fine. As I've said, this draft is begging for an 8 to emerge, and Roldan may very well be it. I'd probably rank Roldan first in that position, but that's based on what I already knew of Roldan, entering the combine. He simply didn't do anything to drop. Personally, considering how dominate Predator was controlling the tempo, and possession, how could any of Nemeziz' midfielders be winners this game?

M Ema Twumasi

Twumasi certainly had moments where he looked class. He has good 1 v 1 ability, and looks to combine more than his fellow Right to Dream countrymen. He gave Justin Fiddes, thought to be the best left back in the draft, fits when he switched sides of the field halfway through the first.

F Brian White

White got the assists, delivering the ball to Lopez-Espin. He was moved out wide, and I think that roles suites him. I just don't think has as high an upside as others in this class.

F Mason Toye

Mason Toye is pretty much exactly the player we thought he was. He positioned just below Marcelo Acuna, preferring to play with his face to goal, rather than with his back to goal. Unfortunately, that's an area of his game he needs to develop to be more effective. It's great that he can play like 5'9” Chris Mueller, but that aspect of his game will be so much more effective, once he learns to use his body, and play like a traditional target man.

F Daniel Musovski

Musovski was largely anonymous in the second; that's a product of their being too many center forwards on this team. But, he made some good plays on the left, and made Mark Segbers look terrible at one point. I look forward to seeing Musovski used more centrally, since I don't think he can transition to the wing as well as someone like Brian White, or Jon Gallagher.

Stock Down:

F Marcelo Acuna

There may not be a player I'm more disappointed in than Acuna. He really struggled as the center forward, despite so much attacking talent around him, Twumasi, Toye, and Gallagher. He repeatedly made poor decisions in the attack, and wasted good opportunities.

F Mohamed Thiaw

Thiaw played out of position on the right this game, and really struggled. There are bigger target men in this draft, but I still think that's Thiaw's best role. Like Musovski, I don't think Thiaw is a winger, and more so with Thiaw. I don't think the coaches did him any favors in this one, but again, some of that has to do with the construction of the roster.

D Tim Kubel

I really expected Kubel to come out and grab the brass ring. I thought he would have an excellent combine, and become a dark horse for MLS rookie of the year. Alas, he didn't have a great start. And, although he didn't play poorly, he didn't do enough to stand out. Kubel had trouble when Bakero drifted to the left. He also failed to make an impact going forward, although he attacked less often than I'd expect. Perhaps, my theory in regards to Gallagher applies to Kubel as well. Acuna really neglected the right hand side, choosing to play the ball to the left repeatedly, maybe that prevented Kubel from making an impact. We have two more games to find out, but coaches, if you're reading [you're not], do not play Kubel and Gallagher with Acuna in the center.

M Ken Krolicki

Ken Krolicki was one of the top central midfielders entering the combine. He was expected to be the best 8 in the class. He struggled in the first game though, failing to make a positive impact on the game. I'd expect a central midfield of Krolicki and Roldan to dominate possession, but that couldn't be further from the trutch. He can still turn it around though.

Evaluating the 2018 MLS Combine Teams

Here are my thoughts on each of the four teams that will compete over the next week at the MLS combine. I think some players were given a great service due to the players around them: Mason Toye, Gordon Wild, and Joao Moutinho (amongst others). Others were put in situations where it may be difficult to stand out: Jon Bakero notably. The teams are addressed in descending order of which I believe have the most cumulative talent.

Tomorrow I'll be back with my thoughts on the combine's first two games.

Red (Team Predator)

This team has some interesting pieces. Jon Bakero is obviously the MAC trophy winner, and has already signed with MLS. Mo Adams is possibly, probably, the best central midfielder in the draft, and a Generation Adidas player to boot. Rafael Andrade Santos is a polarizing player in this draft. He has a ton of quality, but is a college 10, and may not have a position at the next level. Albert Ruiz was a dominate scorer prior to his injury-riddled senior season, and has found himself slip. He'll be looking to show he still has a nose for goal. Justin Fiddes is the best natural left back in the draft. However, I don't necessary love how they potentially fit together. There are few wide players of note. Personally, I would of loved to see Bakero be able to combine with a good wide attacker or two (any of the Ghanian GA players, Winn, Gallagher, White). Instead he'll likely be given freedom in the attack, but that may highlight his lack of pace and athleticism, rather than showcase his technical skill, and vision. Sam Gainford is a forward used to playing in a wide position, like he did while helping to lead Akron last season. Andrade Santos could also be tried on the wing. Mark Segbers will likely be tried all along the right side as well. The back line will be solid if unspectacular. I think the ful backs: Fiddes, Segbers, Nate Shultz, and Cory Brown will be able to get forward. Alex Bumpus and Markus Fjortoft may be no frills CB, but they'll be an able shield. I expect Shultz to get minutes in the middle as well. Mo Adams could be given the opportunity to shine in midfield. He will be moved around a little. I expect to see him play as a 6, 8, and possibly even as a wingback. Thomas Vancaeyezeele is another interesting player to watch, because he could be utilized in a few different areas.

White (Team X)

The most interesting player here is, of course, potential #1 pick, Francis Atuahene. He will lead the attack. There aren't too many out-and-out strikers on this team (despite the depth of those in this draft class), so I expect Atuahene will be used in a variety of ways. I expect him to lineup on the left side of a 433, as a second forward in a two striker formation, or even as a lone striker at times. Atuahene will be joined on the wings by Diego Campos and Jason Wright. I expect Generation Adidas prospect, Gordon Wild, to benefit from the wing play, and the attention Atuahene will receive. He could be in for a big combine. Wild will be given the opportunity to play up top alone, and has a second forward. It wouldn't shock me to see him the wing either. However, I don't know if he has the speed, or on-the-ball skill to play there. Frandtzy Pierrot is a big target forward, 6'4”, and should get time playing alongside a good second forward, Atuahene, Wild, Campos, etc. or, even between two of them. There are some interesting midfielders on this team, even if they lack a standout. Chris Lema is the most highly regarded pre-combine. He is one of the better true defensive midfielders. Brian Iloski, of UCLA, Pol Calvet Planellas, and Will Bagrou will all be given time there. Defense is the weakness of this team. Adam Morrison and Curtis Manley are the guys to watch though.

Blue (Tango)

This is a well balanced team, but their greatest strength is on defense. In fact, it seems they gave them every good defender. Tomas Hillard-Arce will anchor this team. Hillard-Arce already has an MLS contract as a senior sign, and is a potential top pick. He could be paired with Generation Adidas defender, Joao Moutinho. Moutinho has some of the best upside in the draft. I expect to see him at CB, LB, and CM throughout the course of the next week. Tristan Blackmon is perhaps the best right back in the draft class. However, the presence of Brandon Bye, a player teams want to see at right back, makes me think Blackmon will get a long look at CB at the combine. Especially since there is a lack of depth at central defense in this draft. Bye could be one of the biggest movers during the combine, and he's been given an excellent position. Tango could field a backline of (from right to left) Bye, Blackmon, Hillard-Arce, and Moutinho. That would be tremendous defensive, and have some bite going forward. Both Hillard-Arce and Moutinho will be dangerous on set-pieces as well. The midfield is solid. Oliver Shannon is a good central midfielder. Pau Belana and Pablo Aguilar are also solid. Harry Cooksley should be tried at several positions 8, 10, 7, and could be a mover in the vein of Joe Holland a year ago. Jose Carrera-Garcia is another midfielder/forward to watch. I'm not sure how he is going to be deployed yet. The attack is very interesting. Chris Mueller, another senior signed with MLS, will be allowed to play as a 10, a second forward, and probably tried on the wing as well. I'm very interested to see how Mueller adapts to new roles at the combine. There are good wide players in generation adidas prospect, Ed Opoku, and senior, Alan Winn. Opoku is a late addition to the combine, but could play his way into a top-five selection. It will be very interesting to see how the three Ghanian generation adidas players: Opoku, Atuahene, and Twumasi. Leading the line for this team will be target forwards, Arthur Bosua, Afonso Pinheiro, and Mac Steeves. Any of the three could benefit from the plethora of attacking talent around them. I expect at least one to be a big combine mover.

Black (Team Nemeziz)



I believe the team with the worst name is the team with the most talent. The defense does not have as much talent as Tango, but it should be solid enough. Tim Kubel will be given freedom on the right side. Kubel has had a great career at Louisville. I think some are sleeping on him this draft; he could be a contributor right away. Wyatt Omsberg is a big, 6-4, center back, many have pegged to move up following the combine. The problem with this team though is the lack of depth at the back. Seriously, they have four defenders on the roster. Meanwhile, teams Predator and Tango have six defenders apiece. This could be a problem. It's also disappointing, because it removes any hope of seeing them align in a back-three, which would allow teams to see Kubel as a wingback. There are two very intriguing pieces in central midfield, Ken Krolicki and Alex Roldan. Both are able box-to-box players, and they should be able to thrive with so much talent around them. Ricky Lopez-Espin is another midfielder who could impress, but I'm not sure where he fits. This team should be the best team in the final third. There is so much attacking talent, starting with generation adidas Ghanian Ema Twumasi. Twumasi is one of the five most exciting prospects in this draft. He is joined on the wing by senior standout, Jon Gallagher. There may be a glut of forwards on this team, Danny Musovski, Brian White, Marcelo Acuna, Mohamed Thiaw, and generation adidas signing, Mason Toye will all be battling for playing time. White and Acuna may be tried out wide. All the forwards could benefit from tremendous service from the likes of Kubel, Twumasi, and Gallagher.

2018 MLS SuperDraft Mock Draft V.1

Today is the start of the MLS combine, also known as the greatest time of the year. No seriously. I love the MLS combine. Something about a slew of college soccer players battling it out in pursuit of their dreams is everything that's right about sport. I'll watch every second of every combine game over the next week. However, before that, here's my attempt to predict what will ultimately take place January 19th. This is based on the few college games I've seen this year, and what I know each team has done in the draft the last few years.

I am not an expert. I am not a scout. For expert analysis go read Topdrawersoccer.com, sbisoccer.com, and Matthew Doyle's column at mlssoccer.com, just to name a couple.

* Generation Adidas signed player

1 Los Angeles FC: D Tomas Hillard-Arce

LAFC needs help in the midfield, but there isn't much top-end talent there available in this draft. There are a few high-upside forwards, but for my money LAFC will turn to the safest pick in the draft; that is Hillard-Arce.

I've heard the arguments that LAFC should shun a CB here since they already have Ciman and Zimmerman in the fold. However, as of yet, they have not signed a third CB, and Hillard-Arce would immediately be able to contribute in that capacity. Hillard-Arce is the total package at CB, and should be a MLS starter for years to come, and potentially, a future captain of the team he joins.

2 Los Angeles Galaxy: M/F Ema Twumasi*

The Galaxy have not made a selection in the Superdraft since 2015. They traded or passed every pick in 2017 and 2016. I am doubtful they end up following through with this selection. That said, it's rare that the Galaxy have an opportunity to draft this high.

LA's pick will be dependent upon whether or not they are willing to burn an international slot on a draft pick. I'm doubtful. The Galaxy hope, like I believe many are, that Hillard-Arce falls past the top selection. The best Americans on the board are Chris Mueller and Mason Toye. Both of whom would be a reach at 2. So, I think they go with the best talent on the board, that's Ema Twumasi for me.

Twumasi is the best wide attacker in the draft. He would fit in the Galaxy's lineup well on either flank. He's much in the same vein as current starter, Emmanuel Boateng.

Atuahene is another attacker who could get consideration here, as many believe he's the better prospect, but I think Twumasi is the better fit. Joao Moutinho could also be interesting; I could see LA drafting him, and making him their CDM or LB of the future.

3 DC United: F Jon Bakero

This pick may take many by surprise, but I think it's a perfect fit. Bakero is known as highly skilled college player, but lost in that description is his size. He's 6-3. The knock on Bakero, besides his lack of athleticism, is his lack of a true position. But, I don't see why he can't be a 9 for DC. He has the size, and he has the finishing ability to succeed. Bakero would also excel at connecting with his attackers: Acosta, Stieber, and Arriola. Not to mention former Wake Forest teammate, Ian Harkes. Bakero could also spell Acosta as a 10.

You could argue there are attackers with higher upside available, Atuahene, or Toye. But, I think Bakero uniquely fits here. DC United will certainly be another team hoping, Hillard-Arce falls into their laps, but I expect him to be gone. I would consider this to be the Cardinal senior's floor though. Joao Moutinho would be another interesting selection here, as he is the best defender on the board.

4 Impact Montreal: F Francis Atuahene*

Montreal goes with the best player available. Atuahene is potentially the best athlete in the class, following three good years at Michigan. He's a great value at 4, as several outlets (Top Drawer Soccer and Soccer By Ives) have him as their top prospect in the draft.

I'm not sure where Atuahene fits on a MLS squad. He's very direct, and doesn't connect with supporting players as well. However, his natural talent is undeniable, and he's unlike any attacker Montreal currently have. With Dzemaili headed back to Italy, Montreal could revert back to a 4231; a front four that included Atuahene, Jeisson Vargas, Piatti, and Jackson-Hamel would be dangerous. Or, he could be used between Piatti and Vargas in a 433.

5 Minnesota United FC: D Joao Moutinho*

There is some argument as to which position is Moutinho's best moving forward. Is he a LB, CM, or CB. The great news for Minnesota is, whichever they decide, he fills a hole for them. Minnesota has some good pieces in the attack, but still need to strengthen their defense. I think Moutinho the best case scenario for Minnesota. In five years, we could find that Moutinho is this draft's best player. He has the skills to be a special player, regardless of the position he ends up at.

6 Orlando City SC: F Mason Toye*

Toye is 6-3, in the midst of his freshman year, and very good on the ball for his size. His name is coming off the board early. In fact, this may be way too low for him. Toye has high upside, and he's American. The American part is especially important in this draft (with so many of the top prospects taking up an international slot). Toye would fit well with Orlando, taking Cyle Larin's spot alongside Dom Dwyer. Toye is an even better parter up top for Dwyer than Larin. Larin and Dwyer occupy similar space, but Toye, despite having the frame of a target striker, likes to drift wide, and take defenders on the wing.

7 Impact Montreal: D Justin Fiddes

This is a little reach. However, I think Fiddes makes sense for Montreal for several reasons. First, in my mock Montreal already grabbed a high-upside attacker in Atuahene, who fell to them at four. They can now use their second pick to fill a more pressing need. Montreal has lost players across the backline this offseason, Oyongo and Ciman, specifically. Second, Fiddes could follow fellow full back, Jacob Nerwinski, who last year rode a strong combine to the seventh selection (Vancouver). Fiddes would be penciled in as a backup to newly acquired Raitala, and should see first team minutes this year.

8 New England Revolution: M Mo Adams*

New England has back-to-back selections at 8 and 9. Mo Adams may be the perfect player for New England at 8. He fills a need as the best defensive midfielder in the draft, he's on a generation adidas contract, and is also the best player available. I think Mo Adams is undervalued, following Syracuse's poor 2017 campaign. However, Adams is a workhorse, incredible in the gym (he may have the biggest thighs in this draft class), and a natural leader, being named captain his sophomore year. This is a dream scenario for New England.

9 New England Revolution: D Tristan Blackmon

I initially had Chris Mueller here. I think he fits New England well, and he could fit well anywhere in the front three of a 442 diamond, along with Nemeth, Agudelo, and Nguyen (assuming he's not headed to Vietnam). However, realizing Blackmon was still available, I had to make the adjustment.

New England needs help along the back line, and Blackmon is the best defender on the board. He's arguably the best senior defender after Hillard-Arce. Blackmon is a right back, but could see time at center back as well. He should be good enough to see first team minutes this season.

10 Real Salt Lake: F Chris Mueller

Mueller is possibly the player I'm most interested in seeing physical performance scores for. Is he fast enough to play on the wing? Mueller is skilled, but undersized at 5-9, and lacks the physical gifts of top-five picks Atuahene and Twumasi. There is a big question regarding Mueller's best position. He's a creative midfielder, but MLS teams usually spend big on their 10, leaving little room there for superdraftees. This usually pushes college players to the wing, but we'll have to see how well Mueller plays there during the combine. If he can answer the questions surrounding his ability there then he should be picked higher (he's another skilled American, teams want to draft him).

11 FC Dallas: M Ken Krolicki

FC Dallas needs more CM depth, despite drafting Jacori Hayes just a year ago. Krolick represents the best CM available.

12 San Jose Earthquakes: F Jon Gallagher

San Jose is one of the teams that still relies on the super draft to accumulate impactful players. I prefer Gallagher over other tier 2 forwards, like Daniel Musovski, by virtue of having seen him play. Gallagher is versatile, and could fit on the wing at the next level.

13 Sporting KC: M Rafael Andrade Santos

Sporting just traded away their number 10, Feilhaber, Santos could fit there, or on the wing. It's hard to get concrete information on international slots, but it does seem clear Sporting has several. Therefore, I like them to grab Santos who is an interesting talent.

14 Atlanta United: F/M Alan Winn

Atlanta grabbed 2017's top rookie, Julian Gressel, with pick number eight a year ago. They will be looking to grab another value here. Winn's versatile, and provides depth across the front line.

15 Chicago Fire: F Daniel Musovski

Chicago has perhaps the best MLS-ready homegrown talent in the league. Grant Lillard just signed, and I'm hoping Gutman and Lindley are close behind. As a result, I think there's a chance Chicago dumps the pick. If they do hold onto the pick, Chicago could use depth at center forward. Daniel Musovski is one of the remaining tier two forwards.

16 New York Red Bulls: F Mohamed Thiaw

The Red Bulls build through their homegrown academy more than the draft. However, what team couldn't use a big center forward? Thiaw could be a great backup if he puts things together.

17 Vancouver Whitecaps FC: M Jake Rozhansky

This pick does not make sense. Vancouver put a lot of stock in the combine last year, taking standout Jake Nerwinkski. Jake Rozhansky just pulled himself from the combine. Personally, I don't think Rozhansky could see himself fall out of the first round due to this decsion. But, he is versatile, and has first round talent.

18 Sporting KC: D/M Brandon Bye

Sporting KC has used many early picks on defenders the last few years. Brandon Bye could become a quality right back in time.

19 New York City FC: F Gordon Wild*

New York is not afraid to make a splash in the draft. They'e moved up to grab a Generation Adidas player in each of the last two drafts (Jack Harrison in 2016, yes, I know they technically made the trade after Chicago drafed him, and Jonathan Lewis a year ago). I think Gordon Wild is the biggest splash to be made without predicting a trade out right. New York could use a center forward behind Villa, and I'm still a believer in Wild. It wouldn't shock me to see him light it up during the combine, and play his way higher in the draft. Wild is a goal-scorer, and it'd be fun to see him slot in between Harrison and Lewis for a couple games.

20 Houston Dynamo: D Wyatt Omsberg

Wyatt Omsberg is a big (6-4) center back. Houston needs help along the back line, then again, does't every team? Omsberg could find his stock rising with a successful combine. 

21 Columbus [for now] Crew: M Chris Lema

Chris Lema is one of the best CM available in this draft class, and somehow he has fallen in this mock. Columbus should be thankful.

22 Seattle Sounders: M Alex Roldan

Why not? Seattle uses the draft mostly to fill their USL squad anyway, and Roldan fits amongst the other midfielders here.

23 Toronto FC: D Tim Kubel


 This pick makes too much sense. I'm a big fan of Tim Kubel. He would have been a projected top-10 pick if he accepted a Generation Adidas offer after last season. Kubel had another stellar season, scoring 6 goals and adding 7 assists. I don't understand why he is falling on draft boards. Sure, he's an older prospect, and takes up an international slot, but I don't see why he can't be a MLS starter. I was tempted to take Kubel at several positions ahead of this. But, I like this fit way too much; I really want to see it happen. Kubel would be perfect as a right wingback, and Toronto just lost Steven Beitashour and Raheem Edwards. This becomes the pick of the draft, and Kubel becomes a dark-horse for rookie of the year.