Nothing in life is a sure thing. When talking about Major League Soccer’s SuperDraft, that is definitely the case. Over the years critics have written countless articles, criticizing the process. While some think that the draft is not an important part of building a successful franchise, teams like the Los Angeles Galaxy and Sporting Kansas City have lifted the MLS Cup with a roster full of SuperDraft alumni. While most MLS teams are not built around draftees, almost all successful teams have their stars surrounded by players from the SuperDraft.
Toronto FC may only sit at 15th pick in this year’s draft, but the day is not a write off. You cannot be guaranteed a strong player, but there is still plenty of talent available. Looking at the last 5 years, here are some of the major highlights from picks 10 - 16 in the MLS SuperDraft,
2013 – Dillon Powers (11), Jason Johnson (13), Emery Welshman (16)
Powers was one of the biggest steals of the 2013 SuperDraft. Named the Major League Soccer’s Rookie of the Year after an impressive year, Dillon Powers ended a successful season with 5 goals in 30 appearances. He also led his team to the playoffs. It will be hard to find another Dillon Powers this late in the draft, but there is always a chance.
2012 – Matt Hedges (11), Aaron Maund (12), Dom Dwyer (16)
Two years removed from being drafted 16th overall in the SuperDraft, Dom Dwyer is a starting striker for the MLS Cup Champions. Yes, injuries and circumstance made him move up the depth chart, but he still fought his way to the starting XI of a very deep team and was an integral part of winning the championship.
2011 – Will Bruin (11), Justin Meram (15)
83 appearances, 23 goals and 2 United States national team caps, the Houston Dynamo found a late first round steal in Will Bruin. It was a perfect fit for a team which was about to say goodbye to long time target man Brian Ching.
2010 – Bright Dike (12), Collen Warner (15), Michael Stephens (16)
Even at 12th overall, Bright Dike was a bit of a reach for the Columbus Crew in 2010. Still, the TFC striker Dike forced himself into consideration for Nigeria’s squad for the World Cup.
2009 – Jeremy Hall (11), Stefan Frei (13), George John (14)
George John came in to the combine as a bit of an unknown, and slowly climbed up the ranks to find him selected 14th overall. Since that draft, he has not disappointed and has been one of the best centre backs in the league.
The process may not be fine tuned, and academies have reduced its importance, but the MLS SuperDraft is still a major source of MLS's future players. With this in mind, enjoy the draft and look forward to adding some bright prospects to our squad.
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Watch The MLS Draft Live Thursday at 12:00PM on TSN2
