Top MLS contenders

SEATTLE

Nobody has defended an MLS Cup since the Galaxy in 2012, but Seattle has a great shot. It won the title despite Clint Dempsey being sidelined with heart issues. He is back, to team up with midfielder Nicolas Lodeiro and forward Jordan Morris.

DALLAS

Dallas won the Supporters’ Shield and U.S. Open Cup last year, but when Mauro Diaz tore his Achilles tendon in October, they lost in the playoffs. Can Oscar Pareja’s squad finally close the deal in the postseason? New striker Cristian Colman should help.

TORONTO

Will they have a hangover or a breakthrough after losing the MLS Cup? Sebastian Giovinco (17 goals, 15 assists) is an MVP favorite. Victor Vazquez should help Michael Bradley in the midfield, but can Jozy Altidore actually stay healthy?

RED BULLS

Bovada’s favorite to win it all, the Red Bulls traded captain Dax McCarty for allocation money. They have F Bradley Wright-Phillips and MF Sacha Kljestan, but, like Dallas, need to translate regular-season success into the postseason.

MONTREAL

The Impact coughed up 53 goals last regular season, and seven to Toronto in the conference final. But with Italian forward Matteo Mancosu and Argentine Ignacio Piatti, any kind of defense will make them a contender.