Toronto FC took a Scrabble-like approach to the off-season, changing players like letters in search of better combinations and a more harmonious hand after a dismal 6-18-10 season.
While TFC remains a work in progress under new coach Bob Bradley, there is star quality waiting in the wings in the form of Italian Lorenzo Insigne and a bevy of young Canadian talent already in place.
Experienced Mexican international Carlos Salcedo is expected to partner with incumbent Chris Mavinga at the heart of a Toronto defence that can only go up after conceding a franchise-worst 66 goals.
The first test is Saturday at FC Dallas.