MLP Playoff Standings: With the conclusion of Major League Pickleball (MLP) Salt Lake City, a clearer picture has emerged of the playoff landscape. As teams compete for a spot in the post-season, the dynamics are becoming increasingly intense. Here’s a detailed analysis of each team’s standing and prospects.
Dallas Flash: Strong Contenders
At the top of the standings, Dallas looks assured to fulfill early expectations. With 31 points from 14 matches, they are nearing a lock for the playoffs and are strong contenders for a bye. With the bar set around 36-37 points for playoff qualification and about 45 for a bye, Dallas is in a comfortable position. The team, led by Hurricane Tyra Black and Jorja Johnson, has shown consistent performance, indicating they are well on track.
Texas Ranchers: Steady and Reliable
The Texas Ranchers, sitting at 29 points from 14 matches, have shown steady progress. Ranked third in points per match, they are on a steady course to the playoffs. Their consistency suggests they will likely secure a playoff spot with relative ease. The competition with St. Louis for the coveted bye is shaping up to be intense, but Texas can secure it.
St. Louis Shock: The Anna Bright Factor
Led by Anna Bright, St. Louis has accumulated 28 points from 13 matches, placing them slightly ahead of Texas in points per match. The battle for the top two byes seems to be a three-way tussle among Dallas, Texas, and St. Louis. Each match is crucial, and avoiding the extra playoff games by securing a bye could be decisive for their championship aspirations.
New York Hustlers: Punching Above Their Weight
Despite not participating in Salt Lake City, New York remains competitive with 18 points from 10 matches. They have performed better than expected, largely due to their strong women’s doubles team. With the next four teams closely bunched, every match is vital, and New York must maintain their performance to secure a playoff berth.
New Jersey 5s: Climbing the Ranks
New Jersey has shown significant improvement, scoring 11 points in Salt Lake City, bringing their total to 17 from 9 matches. Their 4-0 record in Dreambreakers has been a significant factor in their success. As the season progresses, New Jersey’s ability to perform in critical moments could be key to their playoff push.
DC Pickleball Team: Unpredictable but Potent
DC, with 15 points from 9 matches, did not play in Salt Lake City but remains a strong contender. The acquisition of Vivian Glozman has provided stability, and the team looks assured to be one of the six playoff qualifiers. Their performance in upcoming matches will be crucial.
Los Angeles Mad Drops: Overcoming Adversity
Los Angeles faced a challenging situation with Thomas Wilson‘s absence in Salt Lake City. Blaine Hovenier’s admirable performance helped them secure 10 points, keeping their playoff hopes alive. With 14 points from 9 matches, they are on the edge of the playoff picture but have a fighting chance.
Carolina Pickleball Club: Struggling to Keep Up
Carolina, with 12 points from 11 matches, faces a tough road to the playoffs. Averaging around 2 points per match in the remaining fixtures is essential but seems unlikely. It has been a disappointing season for a team led by Ben Johns, and their focus may shift to building for next year.
Arizona Drive: Underperforming Drive
Arizona, tied with Columbus at 10 points from 10 matches, has struggled to show its potential. Despite having some strong players, their inconsistency has cost them dearly. A significant turnaround is required, but prospects are bleak.
Columbus Sliders: Dysfunctional and Disappointing
Columbus has matched Arizona’s points tally but has been ruined by dysfunction. Riley Newman’s inability to dominate and the poor performance of the rest of the team have led to a disappointing season. Their playoff hopes are nearly extinguished.
Orlando Squeeze: Talent Without Results
Orlando had a disastrous run in Salt Lake City, scoring only 2 points and bringing their total to 7 from 9 matches. Despite having one of the most expensive teams, they have failed to deliver. Their playoff chances are slim, and they need a near-miraculous turnaround.
Utah Black Diamonds: Playing Spoiler
Utah, with just 4 points from 10 matches, is out of playoff competition. However, their competitive spirit in Salt Lake City shows they can play spoiler for other teams. Any victory they secure will significantly impact the playoff hopes of their opponents.
The Road Ahead
As the season progresses, it seems Dallas and Texas are likely to secure the byes, with St. Louis close behind. DC, New Jersey, and New York are in a strong position to round out the playoff spots. The final stretch promises to be thrilling, with every match carrying significant weight. The battle for the top spots will be fierce, and the playoffs are set to deliver high drama and intense competition.
News in Brief: MLP Playoff Standings
With MLP Salt Lake City concluded the playoff landscape is taking shape. Dallas leads with 31 points, nearly securing a playoff spot, and Texas closely follows with 29 points. St. Louis, led by Anna Bright, is also a strong contender with 28 points. New York (18 points) and New Jersey (17 points) are performing well, with New Jersey showing significant improvement. DC, despite not playing in Salt Lake City, remains competitive with 15 points.
Los Angeles, at 14 points, faces a challenging path. Carolina, Arizona, and Columbus are struggling, with playoff hopes dimming. Orlando needs a turnaround, while Utah, with only 4 points, is out but can still impact other teams’ chances. The battle for playoff spots promises intense competition ahead.
