CONTENDERS

Toronto FC

The defending MLS Cup winners retained all their star power. Add in talented Europeans like left back Gregory van der Wiel and midfielder Ager Aketxe, Toronto FC once again established itself as the deepest and best team in MLS.

FC Dallas

One of the hottest teams in MLS’ first half last season, FC Dallas completely fell apart in the second half, earning just 12 points across their final 15 games. Despite missing the playoffs for the first time in his tenure, coach Oscar Pareja and FC Dallas didn’t abandon its young nucleus but replenished it with some flashiness on the wing in Santiago Mosquera and on defense with ex-Switzerland international Reto Ziegler.

New York City FC

In Year 3 for Patrick Vieira, NYCFC had its and the league’s most impressive offseason this winter, bringing in nine youthful faces that will help the starting lineup and provide much needed depth, especially defensively and at midfielder. Questions remain whether somebody other than David Villa will score.

Atlanta United

The loss of Carlos Carmona will leave a hole in the midfield, but that’s something coach Tata Martino is likely fine with, considering Atlanta United is built solely to score. Ezequiel Barco is one of the most exciting young players in the world who should thrive and help Josef Martinez and Miguel Almiron up top for Atlanta.

Red Bulls

Despite making the playoffs eight straight seasons, coach Jesse Marsch said that this is his deepest and most versatile group. Another full season for teen Tyler Adams is something that’ll largely benefit a team that nearly upset Toronto FC in the playoffs last year.