The top-line summation of Porter’s time in Portland is straightforward: He was among the best coaches in Timbers’ club history. Posting a 68-50-52 record over his five years in Portland, Porter’s 1.54 points per game are the best in the brief MLS era and second best of any coach in the Timbers modern era. Throw in an MLS Cup, two regular-season conference crowns, and a soon-to-be-MVP, and Porter’s place in Timbers history is secure.
There also isn’t any question that Porter left the club in better shape than he found it. The transition to MLS was a rough one, with the 2012 season turning into a race for the Wooden Spoon.