As the MLS regular season draws to a close this Saturday, excitement builds in the Western Conference where three teams are vying for two playoff spots. In contrast, the Eastern Conference is largely settled, with teams primarily focusing on seeding. However, one competition that might go down to the wire is the race for the MVP award.

Lionel Messi, who secured the MVP title last season, remains a strong contender for the award again this year. Nonetheless, the last day offers a final opportunity for players to make their mark for the award.

Anders Dreyer from San Diego FC has had an outstanding season with 17 goals and 18 assists, and he could potentially shift the MVP narrative, especially if San Diego clinches the Western Conference title.

Meanwhile, Messi leads the league with 26 goals and 18 assists, setting a substantial gap in goal contributions compared to his peers. This year, he doesn’t face competition from his fellow Inter Miami teammate, Luis Suarez, whose contributions have diminished.

Messi could finish the season with a remarkable goal-per-game ratio despite appearing in just 27 matches. His achievement becomes even more notable given the challenges posed by players like Denis Bouanga and Sam Surridge, who are close in the Golden Boot standings.

MLS’s unique accounting of secondary assists enhances Messi’s contributions by adding a few more assists to his tally. Even if he doesn’t win the Golden Boot, Messi has already surpassed his impressive previous season’s performance of 21 goals and 11 assists.

The extraordinary production Messi showcases is what makes his potential second MVP award so compelling. His consistent excellence sets him apart in the league, establishing him in a class of his own.

MLS Decision Day Schedule

All times on Eastern, available via MLS Season Pass

Saturday, October 18

• Atlanta United vs. D.C. United at 6 p.m.
• Charlotte FC vs. Philadelphia Union at 6 p.m.
• FC Cincinnati vs. CF Montreal at 6 p.m.
• Columbus Crew vs. New York Red Bulll at 6 p.m.
• New England Revolution vs. Chicago Fire at 6 p.m.
• New York City FC vs. Seattle Sounders at 6 p.m.
• Toronto FC vs. Orlando City SC at 6 p.m.
• San Jose Earthquakes vs. Austin FC at 9 p.m.
• Colorado Rapids vs. Los Angeles FC at 9 p.m.
• Sporting Kansas City vs. Houston Dynamo at 9 p.m.
• St. Louis City FC vs. Real Salt Lake at 9 p.m.
• Vancouver Whitecaps vs. FC Dallas at 9 p.m.
• LA Galaxy vs. Minnesota United at 9 p.m.
• Portland Timbers vs. San Diego FC at 9 p.m.