The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has been quietly building towards the introduction of the Young Avengers, but there's another cult-favorite team that's already been assembled: the West Coast Avengers. This team, which first appeared in the 1980s, has a rich history and a perfect lineup of characters that could be seamlessly integrated into the MCU. Here's why this team is a better choice than the Young Avengers, and how the MCU has already introduced many of its members.
U.S. Agent: Introduced in Falcon and the Winter Soldier as the new Captain America, U.S. Agent is a character with a complex history. In the comics, he was a member of the West Coast Avengers, sent by the U.S. government to get the team under control. His arrogance and refusal to budge made him a nemesis for his teammates, and this character type aligns with the U.S. Agent seen in the MCU.
Scarlet Witch: While the Scarlet Witch is believed to be dead, there are hints that she might still be alive. Her downfall in the comics began when she was a member of the West Coast Avengers, and she played a crucial role in Vision's deconstruction and the ruination of her marriage. If she returns, she would be an important member of the team, adding depth to the MCU's narrative.
Mockingbird: Mockingbird's presence in the MCU is a bit confusing due to the different versions of the character. In the comics, Mockingbird was Hawkeye's wife and a founding member of the West Coast Avengers. Her introduction as a retired hero raising kids adds a layer of complexity to the team's dynamics.
Hawkeye: The first leader of the West Coast Avengers, Hawkeye's transformation from a loose cannon to a leader is a fascinating character arc. With his presence in the MCU since the start, he could be a perfect leader for the team, especially if the MCU decides to bring in the West Coast Avengers.
Kate Bishop: Kate Bishop's introduction to the MCU as a skilled archer and former SHIELD agent makes her a strong candidate for the West Coast Avengers. Her presence in the 2010s revival of the team and her ability to bring in younger readers make her a perfect fit for the MCU's version of the team.
America Chavez: America Chavez's debut in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness shows promise for her future in the MCU. As a founding member of the West Coast Avengers in the modern-day iteration, she joins Kate and Hawkeye, along with other young heroes like Gwenpool and Quentin Quire. Her training with Wong adds an intriguing layer to her character.
White Vision: The Vision and Scarlet Witch were core members of the West Coast Avengers, and their story is deeply intertwined with the team's history. The Vision's transformation into White Vision, losing his memories and humanity, is a significant character arc that could be explored in the MCU. The current White Vision in the MCU is a direct reference to this character.
War Machine: James Rhodes, the War Machine, was a core founding member of the West Coast Avengers. His identity as Iron Man's successor adds an interesting dynamic to the team. Rhodes has been a part of the MCU since the early days, and his character could be further developed within the West Coast Avengers.
Moon Knight: Moon Knight's complex character and his connection to the West Coast Avengers in the comics make him a fascinating addition to the team. His MCU future is uncertain, but his past as a West Coast Avenger is a significant part of his character's history.
Wonder Man: Wonder Man's comic book story, which involves him working as a Hollywood actor and the rise of Damage Control, adds an intriguing layer to the character. As a founding member of the West Coast Avengers, his base of operations in Los Angeles makes him a natural fit for the team.
In my opinion, the West Coast Avengers have a rich history and a perfect lineup of characters that could be seamlessly integrated into the MCU. While the Young Avengers are an exciting prospect, the West Coast Avengers have already been introduced in various forms, making them a more immediate and accessible choice for the MCU's future.