Sporting KC: 2018 MLS Super Draft results

Sporting KC utilized the 2018 MLS Super Draft to bring in some defensive prospects for the future. Eric Dick and Graham Smith were the team’s two first round picks.

There are some questions about the Sporting KC offense for 2018, but that doesn’t seem to have affected the team’s draft strategy. Kansas City instead used both of their first round picks on pieces for the defense. Goalkeeper Eric Dick and defender Graham Smith are the newest additions to the organization.

This is a bit surprising when you consider how loaded with talent the SKC defense already is. Tim Melia was a wall in goal this past season, and the team boasts some of the best defenders in the nation. That includes Graham Zusi, Matt Besler, and Ike Opara, all members of the current Team USA roster.

However, there is no doubt that Sporting KC went after some quality players. In fact, the team has already received offers for Eric Dick, but have stated that they won’t move him. It’s clear that SKC is intent on continuing to build on their defensive strength.

The Newest Players

Eric Dick – Goalkeeper – Butler

Sporting KC used their first pick, 13th overall, on Eric Dick from Butler. The 6’5 goalkeeper comes highly decorated, including being named 1st Team All-American for 2017. He recorded nine shutouts this past season, including one in the NCAA tournament. The numbers on Dick are certainly impressive, and he seems a solid piece for the future.

Graham Smith – Defender/Midfielder – Denver

Selected at 18th overall by Sporting KC, Graham Smith is also coming in with his fair share of awards. A finisher who had pair of game-winning goals, plus a game-winning assist, this past year. He was a co-captain at Denver, and was recognized by a variety of outlets for his academic achievements.

Related Story: Sporting KC Loses Latif Blessing in Expansion Draft

Still No Answers On Offense

While adding a pair of top defensive prospects is good, it doesn’t clear up the picture for Sporting KC’s offense any. With Dom Dwyer, Benny Fielhaber, and Latif Blessing all gone, it remains to be seen just how SKC intends to attack their opponents. Currently it is Gerso Fernandes as the team’s top scoring threat.

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There are some other youngsters in the mix who could provide a boost. Daniel Salloi and Diego Rubio both flashed talent for SKC last year. If either player (or both) can take a big step forward this year, it could give Sporting a solid one-two punch on the offensive side of things. However, that remains to be seen.

In the meantime, Sporting KC has some quality defensive projects for the future. Neither Eric Dick or Graham Smith (or even 2016 first round pick Colton Storm) should be expected to play a major role this year. These players are all about the future of soccer in Kansas City. It’s clear that SKC is going to continue to be all about defense.

Sporting KC came into the 2018 MLS Super Draft with a pair of first round picks to work with. Using both of those picks on the defensive side of the pitch shows a clear strategy and way of thinking. This team wants to be all about its defense. That is certainly a philosophy that has been working for them. Let’s hope it continues.