As the only team to qualify for the playoffs each of the last five years, Real Salt Lake has been the model of stability in a quickly fluctuating league. However, RSL failed to get over the hump and win a championship last year. The lack of a trophy and salary cap restrictions forced rare changes to the core of the team. Fabián Espíndola, Jámison Olave, and Will Johnson were among the casualties. RSL’s biggest priority this offseason was finding another striker who can stretch defenses. The team turned to a familiar face in Robbie Findley, who spent four seasons with the team before heading to Europe. With Findley and João Plata arriving and Álvaro Saborío staying, goals should not be a problem this year. Re-signing Javier Morales was a necessary step to remain a serious contender in the Western Conference, while Kyle Beckerman continues to be the team’s engine. Real Salt Lake will be forced to rely on several unproven players this year, and how they respond will determine how far this team can go.

EXPECTED FINISH: 4th in the Western Conference. After all the turnover, Real Salt Lake is not a great team but still should be good enough to remain a factor.