2017 MLS SuperDraft: A look back on previous seventh overall selections

A Rookie of the Year finalist in 2015, an elite centre back, a 2012 Best XI midfielder, and... a law professor?

The MLS SuperDraft can be a crapshoot -  you can land the types of Matt Polster, Walker Zimmerman, and Chris Pontius at seventh overall - Vancouver Whitecaps FC's position in this year's draft. Or you can end up with Mansour Ndiaye, who was picked by the MetroStars in 2002 despite announcing his desire to pursue a law career beforehand.

A number of them got off to fast starts - like Chicago Fire's Polster, who was named to the annual 24 Under 24 list in 2015. Three years earlier, Nick DeLeon became a regular on Philadelphia Union's XI right off the bat, and was also a finalist for MLS Rookie of the Year.

There are also talents who are still too young to gauge. Richie Laryea, 21, and Andre Lewis, 22, have both shown flashes after being selected by Orlando City SC in 2016, and Vancouver Whitecaps FC in 2014, respectively, but have spent the early part of their careers in the USL and have yet to make their MLS debut.

Then there are those who have turned out to be gems - FC Dallas' Zimmerman (pictured) enjoyed a breakout year and ended up with the top defensive player index performer in 2016. Philadelphia Union's Pontius was named to the MLS All-Star team and the MLS Best XI as a member of D.C. United in 2012.

Other solid performers to go at seven are Portland Timbers forward Jack McInerney (43 goals, 167 appearances in seven seasons) and D.C. United winger Patrick Nyarko (23 goals, 222 appearances in nine seasons).  

With a wide range of possibilities (see below for the complete table), it's a safe bet that fans are hoping the 'Caps roll a lucky seven.

Rounds 1 and 2 of the 2017 MLS SuperDraft take place on Friday, January 13 starting at 12 p.m. PT. The draft, which will take place at the Los Angeles Convention Center, will be streamed live on whitecapsfc.com.