MLS Mock Expansion Draft 2011, Ninth Round: Montreal Impact Select Daniel Paladini (Chicago Fire)

With their ninth pick in the 2011 MLS Expansion Draft, the (fake) Montreal Impact select:

Kevin's explanation: It took until his mid-20s for Dan Paladini to become a regular starting professional footballer, but he's had an excellent three years. After two years with the Carolina RailHawks* where he was one of the best players in the second division of U.S. soccer, Paladini signed with the Chicago Fire. The club had a terrible first half of the season, but Paladini did not.

*As a resident of Cary, NC, I am appalled that my professional soccer team has such a terrible name

At $70,000 per year, Paladini's a bit expensive for a 27 year old with only one year as a top flight starter. However, since his performance this season was a continuation of his form in the second division and not completely out of the blue, I'm willing to bet that he's actually a very good player. Paladini, Dax McCarty and Hassoun Camara would give the Impact a rock-solid, playoff-quality center of midfield in their first year of MLS play.

Analysis from Drew Epperley: Montreal should be familiar with Paladini from his days in Carolina with the Railhawks. He has a little more experience than some others on this board and doesn't take up a huge chunk of salary.