Heading into the Western Conference Semifinals of the Audi 2017 MLS Cup Playoffs, SoundersFC.com caught up with a couple national MLS analysts to preview the Seattle Sounders’ series with the Vancouver Whitecaps. ESPN’s Jeff Carlisle and national freelance writer and New England Revolution beat writer Kyle McCarthy each offer their thoughts on what they expect from the two-leg series. (NOTE: These interviews have been condensed and edited for clarity.)
What is the biggest storyline heading into the Western Conference Semifinals?
CARLISLE: Clint’s Dempsey’s status is a big one. He had to sit on the sidelines when the Sounders won it last year, and now he has to sit out the first leg, so that’s certainly a big storyline.