2015 MLS preview: 5 storylines to watch for

Feb 28, 2015; San Jose, CA, USA; San Jose Earthquakes midfielder Sanna Nyassi (17) defends the kick from Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder Robbie Rogers (14) during the second half of the preseason game at Avaya Stadium. The Earthquakes won 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

Life after Landon

For the first time in a decade, Landon Donovan will not be suiting up and taking midfield for the now five-time defending MLS Cup champion L.A. Galaxy.  The best part of that story, however, is that he went out on top.

But there’s still a season to be played and while Donovan and Marcelo Sarvas have left a hole in the championship core, the signing of Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard, who arrives in the summer, added some much needed hype in Los Angeles this season.

If there was any player to keep an eye on, it’s reigning MVP Robbie Keane, who continues to show improvement year in and year out.  He’ll have to shoulder more of a load this season without Donovan, but with a rising star in Gyasi Zardes (16 goals, two assists, six game-winning goals in 2014), the Galaxy could possibly defend their title without missing a beat.

Next: Hello NYC and Orlando!