Starting off, the two Big West players who really stuck out during the entirety of the combine are Luis Silva and Sam Garza. One need only watch the highlights of the AdiPower versus AdiPure game to see the impact that Silva had in the midfield for his team. He was predicted to be drafted early before the combine started, and after his performances throughout the week, it would not be surprising to see him go in the first round. Sam Garza also did well for himself, showing his speed and ability shoot and create goal scoring opportunities. These two players were definitely the standouts from the Big West conference. Another Big West player who has a chance in the draft is James Kiffe. He tallied a goal and may be picked up in a later round of the draft, but didn't have the same caliber of performance as either Silva or Garza. Unfortunately players like Miguel Ibarra and Patrick Sigler may have failed to make a big enough impression during the combine to make the cut, but hopefully this isn't the end of their soccer careers.
Two international players really stuck out during the combine, and both look likely candidates to be drafted. Jason Banton and Kohei Yamada fill similar roles as attacking midfielders, and both bring with them professional and international experience, all at the ripe ages of 19 and 23. Banton was able to show off his ball skills and touch in his final combine match. He scored after beating 4 defenders and knocking it in with his left foot. Yamada made his presence felt with quick paced movement and ball control that added excitement and pace to the games.
Finally, the top three draft prospects are Andrew Wenger, Darren Mattocks, and Chandler Hoffman. Going into the combine these players were likely to go quickly, and after their stellar performances on the field this past week, they will undoubtedly be in the top 5 picks. The speed, goals, and talent these three players possess will be too enticing to pass up.
My wish-list.
I would love to see Silva, Garza, or Banton drafted by the LA Galaxy, as I am a So Cal native and support my team. These three players are all fantastic, and if one of them manages to slip through to the 19th pick, the Galaxy should not hesitate to sign them. LA, after failing to resign Juninho for the upcoming season, will be lack attackers and speed in the midfield. Each of these players have the skill, speed, and attacking mentality to produce needed scoring chances out of the midfield.
Omar Gonzales is also in need of a temporary replacement, having picked up an injury while on loan in Europe. Although this suggestion may seem outlandish to some, picking up Patrick Sigler in a later round would add the size that LA will be lacking without Omar. LA would need to help Sigler improve both his speed and positioning, but his size and physicality may be what LA needs while Omar is recovering.
If LA is unable to pick up any of the players, hopefully teams like RSL, San Jose, Portland, Philadelphia, and SKC are able to acquire them, because these clubs play good soccer, have solid fan bases, and have nice stadiums (or will soon).
Best of luck to all of the MLS teams and to the players awaiting their name to be called. This combine has been a big improvement from last year's. The work that Major League Soccer puts into bringing quality youth players into the league will pay off in dividends in the future, whether it be through the combine or development of youth academies.
Thank you for reading and enjoy the draft!
Tune in to ESPN2 and ESPN3 for coverage of the first round of the draft, starting at 12 Eastern/ 9am Pacific.
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