Breakers Draft Guide: Projecting the 2014 NWSL College Draft

Although the Breakers feature a much different roster than they did in December - the addition of Colombian forward Melissa Ortiz brings hope to a thin forward unit - the team faces similar needs heading into Friday's NWSL College Draft. Look for General Manager Lee Billiard to continue bolstering his attack while acquiring at least one defender, looking to build around his deeply-talented midfield.

What else do we expect from the new-look Breakers? Below, find our 2014 "wish list" and 2014 draft projection, ready for the Breakers second season of NWSL Play.

2014 Wish List

Maya Hayes, Forward, Penn State

In our round one preview, we praised Hayes, a proven goal scorer for both club and country. The West Orange, N.J., native contributed 19 goals and six assists for the Nittany Lions last season, capping a 71-goal, 163-point college campaign. Though newly-acquired forward Melissa Ortiz will fight for a spot in the Starting XI, she remains unproven, leaving the door open for Hayes to make a lasting impact.

Kassey Kallman, Defender, Florida State

We begged for Kallman in our round two preview, drawing attention to her leadership along a stingy Seminoles back line. If the Woodbury, Minn. native falls to the Breakers, expect Billiard and co. to move quickly.

Nkzem Ezurike, Forward, Michigan

Ezurike, a true target forward, scored 14 goals and added 10 assists for the Wolverines last season, receiving praise from scouts nationwide. The Canadian International will most likely fall beyond her value, as many teams will look to avoid filling an international roster spot. The loss of U.S. International Meghan Klingenberg in Friday's Expansion Draft makes Ezurike a worthwhile investment.

Amanda Frisbie, Defender, Portland

Versatility will serve as a noteworthy selling point for Frisbie, an NSCAA First-Team All-American in 2013. In four seasons with the University of Portland, the defender/forward hybrid scored 31 goals and added 12 assists, finishing second on her team in goals while anchoring a defensive unit that posted nine shutouts.

2014 Projection

Round One (8): Nkem Ezurike, Forward, Michigan. Hayes will likely leave the board before the Breakers first round selection, leaving Ezurike as a strong consolation prize.

Round Two (13): Morgan Marlborough, Forward, Santa Clara. A prolific goal scorer and accurate finisher, Marlborough will add depth to a shallow Breakers front line.

Round Three (21): Amanda Frisbie, Defender, Portland. The versatile defender/forward ranks just behind Kallman on our top defenders list, providing exceptional third-round value.

Round Three (23): Molly Menchel, Defender, Virginia. A strong defender and proven goal scorer, Menchel may serve as the draft's most notable "sleeper."

Round four (32): Kaitlyn Kerr, Midfielder, Duke. Though deep in the midfield, the Breakers will pick Kerr as a fourth-round talent selection.

The 2014 NWSL Draft will kick-off at 10 a.m. on Friday, January 17 in Philadelphia, Pa.