MLS SuperDraft: Galaxy and Sounders FC in dealing mood

By Kyle McCarthy

With the MLS SuperDraft just hours away, the speculation and dealmaking is in full force as teams try to position themselves.

MLS coaches and general managers flooded the Westin hotel bar last night. As everyone milled around with a drink in hand, coaches and general managers would pair off and have discussions while leaving the rest of the bar wondering about whether they were discussing the frigid temperatures or a big deal.

Here are a few of the things that are currently swirling around St. Louis:

- Los Angeles acquired Dema Kovalenko from Real Salt Lake in exchange for allocation money and an unspecified draft pick last night. Kovalenko's arrival – coupled with the acquisition of Stefani Miglioranzi last week – likely removes Sam Cronin as a viable option for the Galaxy at the top of the draft.

- Rumors persist that Toronto and Seattle are interested in doing business at the top of the first round. TFC wants less picks and Seattle is willing to move down if it receives the right package. Remember, Sounders FC currently has more than a few open roster slots and could stand to pick up another pick if Sigi Schmid sees something he likes. Schmid and the Sounders could also want a player inexchange.

- Representatives from Chicago and Kansas City were seen engaging in discussions last night. The contents of those talks – whether draft related or not – are unknown at this point. Chicago is likely in the market for a defender but doesn't pick until no. 28. Kansas City has been looking for a keeper and striker.

- New England has seven picks and chances are they wouldn't want to use all of them considering they have only four open slots. But none of those picks have moved as of Thursday morning, according to a team source.

- Award for the most active presence in the room last night goes to Galaxy head coach Bruce Arena. He floated from group to group last night and finished the deal with RSL.

- One Crew staff member joked to Goal.com last night: "We're just here on paid vacation."  The Crew starts their drafting with the last pick
in the second round.

Kyle McCarthy writes the Monday MLS Breakdown and frequently writes opinion pieces during the week for Goal.com. Contact him with your questions or comments at kylemccarthy@gmail.com.