2023 Major League Soccer Predictions: Western Conference

Oct 30, 2022; Los Angeles, California, USA; 
The Los Angeles FC celebrate the win over the Austin FC
Oct 30, 2022; Los Angeles, California, USA; The Los Angeles FC celebrate the win over the Austin FC / Kiyoshi Mio-USA TODAY Sports
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4. Portland Timbers

Feb 12, 2023; Indio, CA, USA; Portland Timbers midfielder Cristhian Paredes (22) moves the ball
Feb 12, 2023; Indio, CA, USA; Portland Timbers midfielder Cristhian Paredes (22) moves the ball / Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports

Last season finish: 46 points; 8th in West, 15th in League
Player to watch: M Evander

Portland is one of the most consistently succesful clubs in MLS, which is why it was such a surprise when the Timbers missed the playoffs last season. That has to and will change this year.

The top-end talent on this roster is impressive, anchored by new $10 million DP Evander. If he delivers on the promise and they make a few additions to fill out the squad, the Timbers will be a cup contender again in 2023.