Previous Year Recap
Nashville DC was easily the biggest surprise of the 2020 season with a solid regular season to qualify for the playoffs and then an electrifying run in the playoffs. Their team of MLS veterans gelled quickly at the back and made for a formidable defensive unit that was aided by a few fresh faces carrying the offense.
Fantasy Players to Watch
Goalkeeper: Joe Willis is a battle tested keeper that is more than serviceable in the fantasy game. Given the group in front of him, he’s a weekly option to keep on your radar.
Defenders: Walker Zimmerman, the 2020 MLS Defender of the Year, could easily be the top scoring defender in the game this year. The only problem Zimmerman has is his price rises quickly and he generally becomes too expensive. When that happens, look to Dave Romney as a cheaper alternative or Daniel Lovitz who takes some set pieces.
Midfielders: Nashville has two quality mids that share the spotlight. Hany Mukhtar is the top billed player and more than capable of notching double-digit scores while Randall Leal is a cheaper option that can keep pace any given game. Both are viable and it wouldn’t be out of the question to grab both at once.
Forwards: Forward might be the biggest surprise for Nashville in fantasy this year. Jhonder Cadiz is on loan from Benfica. He failed to score in 7 appearances in 2020, but only played 219 minutes in that time. If the 25 year old gets regular starts for the club, he could be an under the radar candidate for any fantasy team.
Fantasy Expectations
Nashville’s ability has them as dark horse contender from the 2021 season and the defense will be a staple for rosters in fantasy even as the price rises. Mukhtar should be able to reach premium status given how this team has played and Leal won’t remain a steal for long. Get in early to gain value and then grab these players when the matchups are right.