MLS Playoff Prediction
With only a couple weeks left of play until the MLS playoffs begin we can start to take a look at some potential conders as well as whose on the bubble of making it in. Out of the 47 MLS clubs, only 17 will make it in; the 17 are made up of 7 teams in both the Eastern and Western conference. The coveted first seed from each division will additionally earn a first round bye.
(mlssoccer.com)
Decision Day is on November 7th, meaning clubs only have a couple more games to make any last minute playoff pushes. In the Eastern conference, New England Revolution have made their make, coming it at a total of 70 points through 32 games so far, not only securing the first seed but also the first round bye. Philadelphia Union and Nashville SC can secure playoff birth with just one more win. On the flip side NY Red Bulls are in 6th with Atlanta United in 7th place, both with 43 points respectively. Tied on points with them is Montreal CF sitting in 8th at 43 points; hot on their tail with DC United, sitting in 9th but with a very close 41 points. If DC and Montreal are able to win out, I can think of very minimal reasons why they would not find themselves playing in the post season.
(sounderatheart.com)
In the Western conference, Seattle Sounders have secured playoff birth with 58 points through 31 games. However, they have not yet secured the first seed bye. Sporting KC are only 3 points behind the Sounders, with a game in hand as well. Minnesota United sit in 6th with 45 points, while Vancouver FC are right behind with 44 points in 7th place. Chasing a playoff spot are Real Salt Lake and LAFC with 42 and 41 points. The playoff push for these two teams is crucial, however Real Salt Lake still have an extra game to play compared to 6th, 7th, and 9th place.
(thebentmusket.com)
New England Revolution have to be favorites to win the playoffs this year. Backed by Matt Turner in goal, the Revolution have a strong goaltender who has a .734% save percentage to this point on the season. In addition to his success in the MLS, Turner has been given several opportunities to shine with the USMNT. On the scoring front, Adam Buksa has collected 16 goals and 3 assists in his 30 games played. In his supporting role, Gustavo Bou has tallied 15 goals with 9 assists in 28 games played. Manager Bruce Arena has a track record of success in the MLS, coaching clubs such as LA Galaxy and NY Red Bulls while at their primes. With all of this coming together, it will make for a very exciting run for the Revs.