Three Players to Watch: Colorado Rapids

(image via David Zalubowski - AP)

Each week we’ll be looking more into the Houston Dynamo’s opponent, talking to media that covers the team, digging into what we can expect from that squad, and in this series, taking a look at three players to watch from the upcoming opponent. The Dynamo are back home this weekend for a Western Conference tilt against the Colorado Rapids. Here are three names to watch in this match.

Ted Ku-DiPietro

D.C.’s former Golden Boy is back in form post-injury—only now, he’s wearing Rapids burgundy instead of the black and red of United. Subbed on in the 84th minute of Colorado’s last match against San Diego, Ku-DiPietro immediately showed his trademark energy and drive, pushing the ball forward with confidence despite his long absence from match action. There’s a strong chance he sees more minutes this Saturday, and if his cameo last week was any indication, he could quickly become a difference-maker in Colorado’s midfield.

Djordje Mihailovic

Mihailovic is off to a hot start this season, recording three goals and an assist in his first eight appearances, including a standout brace against Charlotte FC. He’s quick, dynamic, and provides the offensive spark Colorado sorely missed last season. When returning players are producing at this level, it’s a clear sign something is clicking. His goal against San Diego was his 30th goal contribution in just 37 appearances for the Rapids—a testament to his consistency and importance in the attack.

Cole Bassett

A Colorado homegrown talent and a fixture in the midfield over the past three seasons, Cole Bassett plays a more defensively minded role than Ku-DiPietro or Mihailovic, offering a layer of stability and control. He notched an assist in the Rapids' most recent match and played a key role in orchestrating their midfield transitions. Bassett might not dazzle you with flair, but his reliability is what makes him so dangerous—especially if the Rapids can give him space to operate. With both Bassett and Mihailovic central to Colorado’s offensive resurgence, this weekend’s clash is shaping up to be a midfield battle. Artur and Jack McGlynn will need to bring their A-game to keep up.