If we're gonna talk about the shield, early points are just as important as later points. And considering how dangerously close we came to missing the playoffs last year, I'm not sure we should be comfortable giving up early points through that lens either.
True except we have 2 shields already and I dont think anyone gives a dump about a third.
Lots of teams have poor stretches in league play and still win MLS Cup. So if I have to choose between being hot at the start of the season or the end of the season well...
And losing Adams for nats duty will NOT have an effect on our playoff chances. Injuries, poor management, poor or few good signings, no one else pulling their weight...THAT is what will cost us. Not one of our best players going to nats camp.
Back to the original question though YES losing Adams to the national team could possibly hurt us in terms of the Champions League since he wouldnt have as much time with our new players and or playing centrally this season.
But what are we gonna do? Tell him he cant go? I dont think thats a good business practice. If you want to have really good players on your roster then youre going to lose them to nats duty. Period.
Moving along...