Early on in the season several players started hot, but we've seen injuries to players high in the scoring charts like Twellman, Ching, EJ, Ruiz, and others, not to mention Donovan has only played in about 2/3 of LA's games and we are now past the half-way point of the season and the top scorers are Noonan and Cunningham with 8. Ruiz, Jacqua, Moreno have 7. Will someone turn it up a notch and hit 20 by season's end? Noonan is probably the best candidate he has played 13 games and has 8, New England has only played 15 games, and they have many weapons so he will get his chances I think.
I think if Ruiz or Eddie could play more games than they do b/c of injuries and internationals either of them could have pulled it off. Its difficult today to hit 20 goals unless you are playing 26-32 games per year. I think at the end of the year the winner will be in the 16-18 range
Cunningham would be a good choice but I think it will be hard for him without better service (at least he's got 5-6 games vs RSL and Chivas to fatten up on before the seasons out)...Jaqua has been a pleasant surprise this year. Twellman has hit the 20 goal plateau before, if he didn't get injured he would have a great shot for this season.
Even if he wasn't going to be gone with the Nats, this is something that goes against his chances. The more dangerous players a team has, the less a single player is going to score.
I'd bet on Jaqua. Especially if he steps up to start taking our PKs. Look for him to add another 1 or 2 tom vs. New England.
When was the last time someone hit 20 in MLS. Scoring does seem to be up this year, but I dont see anyone hitting 20 at this point.
Hear me now and believe me later, Ante Razov gets 20 if he stays healthy. He's off to a great start with the Metros and seems to fit in well. I was pissed when the Metro signed him but I'll gladly eat crow if he helps us get to Pizza Hut Park in November (or October).