To the goal-scorers usually goes the individual hardware. When the goal totals are record-setting, the case strengthens even more.
So it should be little surprise that the 2018 MLS MVP award was given to Atlanta United's Josef Martinez on Wednesday, just days before his side hosts the Portland Timbers in MLS Cup. Martinez's 31 goals broke the single-season MLS record of 27 previously held by Roy Lassiter, Chris Wondolowski and Bradley Wright-Phillips. His three playoff goals have given him 34 in the regular season and postseason combined, breaking Lassiter's record of 33 set in the league's inaugural 1996 season.