A compelling, multi-team race for the top spot in the 2019 Eastern Conference standings culminated in celebrations at Highmark Stadium, where Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC stood tallest following an impressive 8-0-3 finish to the season.

Unfortunately for the Hounds, and everyone else in the East’s postseason field, when the playoffs finally arrived, so did a predictable outcome as Louisville City – for the third consecutive season – reached the USL Championship Final.

LouCity’s quest to become the first side to claim three Championship titles came up short against Real Monarchs SLC, but Head Coach John Hackworth’s side is among the favorites once again as the club gets set to move into a new 11,700-seat Lynn Family Stadium in April. Familiar faces, including LIPAFC rival Indy Eleven and the Tampa Bay Rowdies should be leading challengers alongside the Hounds.

The wild card could be Championship newcomer Miami FC, however, which enters with its own history of success it will be looking to replicate in its new surroundings.

In field packed with talent and parity, we take a look at what to expect from the 2020 Eastern Conference.