A recent post on Reddit has brought to light a sentiment of discontent among players and fans regarding the current playoff format used in Major League Soccer (MLS). LAFC defender Aaron Long openly shared that players are not fond of the best-of-three playoff structure, stating, “No, we don’t like it. We just don’t like the best-of-three.” This stance was met with significant approval from fans in the comments, many expressing their frustration with the lack of excitement and urgency that the current format brings to the postseason. The conversation quickly spiraled into a broader discussion about the necessity for change in MLS playoff structures, reflecting the overall dissatisfaction with how things are playing out on the pitch.
Summary
- Aaron Long expresses clear discontent with the best-of-three playoff format in MLS.
- Fans echo this sentiment, noting a decrease in excitement and urgency during the playoffs.
- Comments reveal a collective desire for a simpler, more traditional playoff structure.
- The current format appears to be negatively impacting viewership and engagement.
The Players Speak Out
The original sentiment shared by Aaron Long resonated strongly with fellow players and fans alike. The reactions were almost unanimous in their rejection of the best-of-three playoff format, which was seen as excessive and diluting the excitement that typically surrounds playoff games. One user encapsulated this feeling perfectly, stating, “We don’t either that’s why we refuse to play in them.” The notion of players actively opting out or refusing to play in such games points to significant dissatisfaction and raises questions about how seriously these playoff formats are taken by those directly involved. It seems that the sense of ‘stake’ in the games has diminished, leading players and fans to doubt whether the current setup fosters the high-pressure situations that make playoffs compelling.
Fan Frustration
Fans are not holding back when it comes to their opinions on the playoff format, and many have taken to the comments section to voice their displeasure. One particularly striking comment highlighted the lack of excitement in the first round, with a fan lamenting, “I don’t even feel like paying much attention to game 1 of 3.” Such statements underscore a growing trend of apathy towards the MLS playoffs, which traditionally should be the peak of the season. Coupled with the comment from another fan who stated, “The first round is so stupid I probably won’t be watching the playoffs until the conference finals,” it becomes clear that the three-game series is not only disengaging for the players but also for the audience. This disconnection raises concerns around the future of player and fan investment in the league.
Changing Tides in MLS Engagement
The debate over playoff formats also ties into broader concerns about fan engagement and interest in MLS as a whole. Several users commented on how the uniqueness of the best-of-three format, purportedly aimed at boosting ticket sales, has had the opposite effect. One fan reflected this frustration by stating, “I highly doubt there’s any fan on here begging for 3 playoff games.” The very structure meant to enhance excitement is viewed by fans as a cash grab that undermines the sport’s integrity. In light of this discontent, it becomes evident that fans crave a playoff structure that feels intuitive and allows for the urgency of single-knockout games — akin to what is seen in various other leagues around the world, such as the UEFA Champions League or NBA playoffs.
The Bigger Picture: MLS’s Identity Crisis
This growing dissatisfaction raises critical questions about MLS’s identity and direction. One fan articulated concern by lamenting that MLS seems “to look at every great idea in the world and reject all of them.” As the league competes for relevance amid a sea of other sports leagues that provideFans and players alike appear united in their sentiment that the league’s decision-makers need to reassess and realign with what both audiences and players value most: thrill, engagement, and passion. Without a solution to the dissatisfaction expressed, MLS risks losing not just current fans but future ones as well. Whether it’s moving back to a simpler home-and-away format or a single elimination for playoffs, a return to tradition may be the answer needed to reignite interest and investment in this ever-evolving league.
With various calls for change echoing throughout the comments, it is clear that both players and fans desire a playoff format that embraces the drama and intensity synonymous with sports. As sentiments grow increasingly negative, it could very well be that the best-of-three structure is pushing both players and their supporters towards apathy, rather than the excitement that should characterize playoff seasons. Making necessary adjustments to the playoff format could help propel MLS back into a position where it not only captivates players but ensures its place in the hearts of fans.