Playoff Drama! With only three weeks remaining the playoff picture seemingly isn't getting any clearer. Ten MLS sides are all within six points of each other within their respective conferences, battling out for the final ten spots. This week four of the six matches scheduled have opponents which are directly within four points of one another. At the end of the season when players see themselves facing either post season action or an earlier than hoped for vacation, they'll look back on this week as the deciding factor. Here's our picks for Round 34.
Hernan Bernardello ($7.2m)
– He's appears to be back and healthy. Designated player Bernardello deemed himself fully fit Tuesday morning, and while Montreal have a crucial game this week, it's all about planning ahead for their double fixtures next round. The question is, will he start? With Patrice Bernier ($8.0m) appearing to have a hip issue, it looks likely he'll see the pitch. The recent struggles for Montreal have not seen them earn a clean sheet since Bernardello last featured for them, so he may prove a difference maker for their team.
Camilo Sanvezzo ($8.7m) Vancouver Whitecaps FC
– Last Sunday 'Caps fans were treated to a double feature, two outragous goals from the Magician. One of which even a Cirque Du Soleil performer would love to call their own. With such an important match ahead of them this Wednesday in Seattle, expect Camilo to be leading the charge for the Blue & White. In addition to his hot streak of delivering four goals in three games, the last time Camilo played in Seattle he managed a brace. If anybody can get things done for the 'Caps, bank on the Camilo's Brazilliance to get the job done.
Speaking of Seattle, fantasy managers should take note that the Sounders are the only team in the league with a double header this week. The challenge for them is that in both those matches they'll be squaring off against their two Cascadian rivals, Portland Timbers and Whitecaps FC. While we think the 'Caps will rise to the occassion, as a fantasy manager you can't help but load up with three Seattle players this week purely because of the minutes their side will post. Here's who we have in our lineup.
Team of the Week - Seattle Sounders
Defense
– Usally the easy and reliable play is picking a team's defense, but keep in mind the five goals Seattle gave up to Colorado last week. Michael Gspurning ($5.9m) should be a safe bet as keeper, while Jhon Hurtado ($4.5m) only lasted 45 minutes last match. With Zach Scott ($4.4m) suspended however, Hurtado may be forced back to 90 minute form. If you have the budget, direct your attention and transfers to DeAndre Yedlin ($5.3m) slightly more pricey but he's their go to man and can help when moving forward to gain you some attacking points.
Attack
– Obafemi Martins ($8.7m) seems to be finally fit and ready to play a role in Seattle's doubleheader. With Eddie Johnson ($9.7m) away Seattle will be looking for somebody to take the bull by the horns and Martin could end up showing Portland why he's their designated player.
