Canadian Defender Nikola Markovic Poised for Top Pick in MLS SuperDraft
With the upcoming MLS SuperDraft, Canadian defender Nikola Markovic is emerging as a top prospect. This year’s draft promises to attract much attention, especially from teams like Orlando, Colorado, and Dallas, which collectively hold ten first-round picks.
Major Players in the Draft
Orlando has secured picks five, nine, 14, and 20, while Colorado has the sixth (acquired from Toronto), 10th, and 19th picks. Dallas is positioned with the third, 16th, and 21st selections. This concentration of early picks makes these teams key players in shaping the future of the league.
Overview of Top Canadian Prospects
- Nikola Markovic: A standout defender from North Carolina State University, Markovic is 6’4″ and weighs 205 pounds. He was named the ACC Defensive Player of the Year and assisted on a goal in the NCAA championship game against Washington, which his team lost 3-2.
- Nikos Clarke-Tosczak: A fullback from the University of Portland, he was a key defensive player, logging 1,643 minutes and allowing just 12 goals all season. Clarke-Tosczak previously played in the Vancouver Whitecaps academy.
- Charles-Emile Brunet: This midfielder from Southern Methodist University scored two goals and provided six assists during his first season. Brunet is also notable for being the son of a La Presse sports columnist.
Other Notable Draft Candidates
Several international players are expected to make a significant impact in the draft. For example, Nicolas Simmonds from Virginia scored ten goals and added five assists, and Junior Diouf from Grand Canyon tallied 18 goals and six assists in his freshman year.
Draft Structure and Impact
The MLS SuperDraft has evolved to include sophomores and juniors, allowing a wider range of talent. Teams often trade picks to enhance their rosters. For instance, Toronto FC traded their 2025 first-round pick in a deal that benefited both them and Colorado.
Exceptional talent, such as the Canadian forward Marcus Caldeira, who was drafted in the first round last year, illustrate how the influx of foreign players has expanded the league’s talent pool. His significant achievements at West Virginia put him on the radar for many teams.
Final Thoughts
The decisions made in this year’s MLS SuperDraft will be critical for the future of many franchises. With prospects like Nikola Markovic leading the charge, teams will strive to secure the best talent available. The upcoming draft could redefine team dynamics in Major League Soccer for years to come.
