The last playoffs for the EU and NA LCS are coming up and there is a lot on the line. Most teams have locked themselves into regional finals, but 4 teams will get knocked out of playoffs after this weekend. In this article, we will explore the matchups, what to expect and what to watch.
EU Saturday: H2k Gaming vs Giants Gaming
H2k’s test for playoffs:
The EU LCS Playoffs start with a series between H2k Gaming and Giants Gaming. Giants have already secured a spot in the regional finals, but this series is important for both teams. It serves as a test series for H2k and gives Giants a chance to learn and recognize their flaws. H2k is the favorite to qualify for worlds based on circuit points, but they had a rough ride during the second half of the regular season. This series will give an indication of their chances of success against Origen in the semifinal. If H2k struggles, it would be a bad sign for the team. On the other side, Giants will use this series to gain experience in LCS level best of 5 series.
Head to head: 2-0 in favor of H2k
H2k has won both of their previous matchups against Giants, so they are expected to perform well in this series. However, Giants have shown that they can challenge top teams in single games. They need to show improvement in order to have a chance against H2k.
Lane to watch: Odoamne vs. Werlyb (Toplane)
Odoamne and Werlyb are both strong laners and it will be interesting to see their duels in this matchup.
NA Saturday: Team Impulse vs Dignitas
Impulse’s necessary hurdle and Dignitas’ final stand:
This matchup is important for both teams. If Team Impulse wins, Team Dignitas is out of the running for a spot at worlds. If Dignitas wants to go to worlds, they need to win this match. Impulse also don’t want to lose, as it would impact their chances at qualifying for the gauntlet. Dignitas has struggled to win against top teams, while Impulse has been on a winning streak in the second half of the split.
Head to head: 1-1 tie
Both teams have won one game each in their previous matchups, so this series is evenly matched.
Lane to watch: Impact vs. Gamsu (Toplane)
Gamsu is the strongest player on Team Dignitas, but he will be facing off against former world champion Impact. It will be interesting to see how Gamsu performs against Impact.
EU Sunday: Team ROCCAT vs. Unicorns of Love
Battle of midlane:
Unicorns of Love had a regular season similar to spring, with moments of brilliance and moments of inconsistency. They have performed well against top teams in single games, but lacked consistency. ROCCAT had a more consistent season and have shown improvement as a team. This matchup is difficult to predict, as Unicorns can be unpredictable. ROCCAT has the statistical advantage, but Unicorns have shown that they can challenge top teams.
Head to head: 1-1 tie
Both teams have won one game each in their previous matchups, so this series is evenly matched.
Lane to watch: PowerofEvil vs. nukeduck (midlane)
Both PowerofEvil and nukeduck are the primary carries for their teams. They play a similar style, so there will be interesting plays and picks in this lane.
NA Sunday: Gravity vs. Team Solomid
Battle of the fallen:
Both Gravity and Team Solomid were tied for first place in week 6, but both teams went into a slump. This matchup is important for TSM, as a win guarantees them a spot at worlds. Gravity is locked in the regional finals if Impulse wins their match on Saturday, otherwise they have to win to have a shot at going to worlds. TSM’s problems have been reactionary and passive play, while Gravity has struggled with their one-dimensional playstyle and poor rotational play. This matchup is difficult to predict, as both teams have their flaws.
Head to head: 1-1 tie
Both teams have won one game each in their previous matchups, so this series is evenly matched.
Lane to watch: Keane vs. Bjergsen (midlane)
Keane is known as the anti-carry, but he needs to start doing damage himself for Gravity’s success. Bjergsen has the ability to carry TSM on his own. The midlane matchup will be interesting to watch.
These playoffs matchups will determine which teams move forward and have a chance at going to worlds. It will be interesting to see how these teams perform under pressure and which players step up to carry their teams.
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