5 Names to Look out for in 2015 MLS SuperDraft

On Thursday, Major League Soccer will welcome its latest crop of young talent to the league during the MLS SuperDraft in Philadelphia. 

While the 2015 draft class may not be as prolific as recent ones, it still has the potential to produce some quality players. 

Only five players inked Generation Adidas deals, which are handed out to college underclassmen by the league. But the five prospects do carry a ton of potential with them. 

Outside of the Generation Adidas players, who don't count against an MLS team's budget and receive grants to further their education, there are some talented college seniors in the draft pool as well who have the potential to make a big impact in 2015 for their respective clubs. 

Here is a look five names you should know heading into Thursday's MLS SuperDraft.  

Cyle Larin

Ronald Zak/Associated Press

The top player in the 2015 MLS SuperDraft talent pool is UConn forward Cyle Larin. 

The Canadian forward netted 23 goals in two seasons for the Huskies before he inked a Generation Adidas deal with MLS. 

Larin, who is still 19 years old, is projected to be drafted with the first pick by Orlando City in Thursday's draft. 

While he may not be ready to play right away, the dynamic forward will get a chance to develop in his first season with the expansion side. 

With an attacking superstar like Kaka in the squad, Larin should be able to learn the tricks of the trade before he turns into a major star in his own right. 

Cristian Roldan

Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Cristian Roldan is the clear No. 2 player on many draft boards heading into Thursday. 

The University of Washington sophomore is expected to be taken second in the draft by New York City FC if Larin goes to Orlando City as expected. 

The dynamic 19-year-old midfielder has been one of the top young talents in America for a while and now will finally get a chance to ply his trade at the sport's highest level in the United States. 

Just like Larin, Roldan is not expected to make a massive impact in his first season. But with NYCFC manager Jason Kreis playing a key role in his development, Roldan should turn into an important contributor over the next few years. 

Khiry Shelton

Behind Larin and Roldan on many draft boards is Oregon State forward Khiry Shelton, who could end up as the Montreal Impact's first-round pick in the third overall position.

Shelton is seen as the top senior in the draft class, and he could become a viable option off the bench during the 2015 MLS season. 

In his final season with the Beavers, Shelton forced his way onto the draft radar with 10 goals and 12 assists in 20 games. 

If he the Impact select him, Shelton could end up in a forward duo with Jack McInerney, whom Philadelphia selected seventh overall in 2010. 

Alex Bono

In the last week, Syracuse University goalkeeper Alex Bono has been thrust into the spotlight for a few reasons. 

The 6'3" junior 'keeper was signed to a Generation Adidas contract on Wednesday, and two days later he was named to the United States men's national team roster for their annual January camp. 

The first-team All American may not be selected in the top five due to the goalkeeping situations at certain clubs, but whoever picks him up will be receiving a solid goalkeeping prospect. 

One team to keep an eye on in regard to Bono is D.C. United, who need a player to back up Bill Hamid. Bono might not be there at No. 17 for the Black and Red, but Ben Olsen's side may trade up to get him if the price is right. 

Also look out for Toronto at No. 6 or Houston at No. 8 to swoop in and take Bono, as both sides could use some improvement at the position. 

Nick Besler

USA TODAY Sports

Notre Dame midfielder Nick Besler is receiving some attention because of his last name, but he is also earning praise for his performances on the pitch over the last four years. 

The younger brother of Sporting Kansas City and United States defender Matt Besler is seen as a high first-round selection by many around the league. 

With four years of college experience under his belt, the central midfielder has a chance to step into a club's starting 11 if the right opportunity presents itself. 

Although he could go as high as fifth to Portland, he could also join up with his brother at Sporting KC if he slips to the No. 10 pick. 

Follow Joe on Twitter, @JTansey90.