Toronto FC: Three hopes, one fear

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Sep 18, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; New York Red Bulls midfielder Sean Davis (27) takes the ball away from Toronto FC forward Jordan Hamilton (22) as New York Red Bulls midfielder Felipe Martins (8) looks on at BMO Field. Toronto and New York tied 3-3. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports /

Hope #2: That Jordan Hamilton can provide a spark off of the bench.

This kind of ties in with the first hope in that Toronto needs all of their attacking pieces to be working properly to succeed. That includes Jordan Hamilton, the young Canadian international who is considered to be one of MLS top young strikers. Hamilton finally broke through the Toronto FC roster this year, scoring three goals in 14 matches.

What makes Hamilton such an exceptional talent is his vision. Although his physical skills are tremendous in time with both Toronto sides he has shown great awareness of his position on the pitch. It is often very difficult for younger strikers to understand their positioning on the pitch and how to exploit the weakness in defense. It is easy to get open.

But to get open a second time after the defense reacts to your initial move? Very difficult. That is what Hamilton can do and what makes him such a valuable player to Toronto.

If Toronto are to advance past Philadelphia and deep into the playoffs they are going to need to find more attacking options outside of Altidore and Giovinco. The MLS playoffs in the past have been a great arena for young strikers to make their mark. Toronto FC supporters will hope that Hamilton can make the jump in limited minutes in the playoffs and realize his potential.

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