By the end of Saturday night, the 2024 MLS Cup playoffs no longer contained Lionel Messi. Inter Miami were ousted in shocking fashion, at the hands of the Eastern Conference's No. 9 seed: Atlanta United.

That was hardly the only shock, though. The top three teams in the Eastern Conference, including last year's MLS Cup winners, will watch the rest of the postseason from the comfort of their homes.

With plenty to talk about after Round 1 came to a close on Saturday night, and nearly two whole weeks before the conference semifinals begin, ESPN breaks down the highs, the lows and the controversy of MLS's just-concluded best-of-three series.

Title favorites emerge from Los Angeles

With Inter Miami and the Columbus Crew now out of the picture, all eyes will now be set on the new title favorites emerging from the west coast: LAFC and the LA Galaxy.

Carried by four goals and an assist from Riqui Puig, the Galaxy were relentless with their 5-0 and 4-1 thrashings of the Colorado Rapids in the most recent playoff round. Let's not forget Gabriel Pec either. MLS' Newcomer of the Year was also brilliant with three assists and a goal in the two-game series. As long as they avoid some of the defensive mistakes seen this season, their attack should be able to compensate for any issues from the No. 2 seed from the West.

As for the conference's No. 1 seed, despite some roadblocks in a series against the Vancouver Whitecaps that went three games, there's still reason to have plenty of faith in the side that lifted the U.S. Open Cup champions. LAFC have got depth in the frontline, and by the way, they just so happen to have a backup option like club legend Carlos Vela now back on the bench.