Eugene Rupinski, Brotherly Game) After missing the playoffs last season, the Portland Timbers have been one of the best teams so far in 2017. What's been the key to the hot start?
Will Conwell, Stumptown Footy) The key for the Timbers so far has been the side's ability to to present a versatile but balanced attack, capable of breaking teams down in a number of ways. Of course, to assemble a side just as capable on the break as they are in possession, the Timbers needed to make some upgrades after a lackluster 2016.