MLS’ SuperDraft returns on Friday. It features no surefire top pick, nor are there guaranteed immediate contributors at the top of the class. Many young domestic-developed players go through MLS academies rather than the collegiate system, or they sign a Homegrown contract out of school. The draft’s value has diminished as a source of starting-caliber talent.
But solid guys enter the league every year through this medium, and not long ago elite players like Jack Harrison and Cyle Larin were chosen in the SuperDraft. It’s fairly random, but it can surely be valuable as a cheap roster-building component.