While the LCS and the League of Legends World Championship have not always had the best relationship, last year was particularly rough for North America. Despite the tournament being held in the US and Mexico, all three NA teams performed poorly, winning only three games in total.
Something needed to change. Instead of focusing on developing new talent, conversations shifted to how much money individual LCS teams were willing to spend on importing skilled players for a chance at international success.
As a result, the LCS experienced a controversial and eventful season. Many teams made extensive roster changes, and the North American Challengers League (NACL) was left in uncertainty.
During the 2023 Spring and Summer Splits, fans witnessed both expected and surprising results. Cloud9 remained dominant, while previously middle-of-the-pack teams like Golden Guardians and CLG/NRG challenged for the top spot. Meanwhile, former top teams like FlyQuest and 100 Thieves struggled despite roster changes.
Despite the challenges faced throughout the year, the three teams representing the LCS at Worlds have been determined. They consist of a mix of reigning champions and players making their Worlds debut. These teams aim to prevent a repeat of last year’s disappointing performance.
The new kings of the LCS
CLG, a long-standing LCS organization, departed the scene after over a decade. However, their roster of exceptional players remained together under a new banner: NRG.
While NRG initially struggled to find success, they turned their luck around and secured a spot in the LCS Championship bracket. They overcame several tough opponents, including Cloud9, and showcased exceptional teamwork.
NRG’s journey to the finals may have seemed like an underdog story, but their victory proved well-deserved. This iteration of the NRG roster feels like a family, and they have accomplished a lot this year.
The team consists of players with varying levels of international experience. Despite this, their trust in each other has propelled them forward and could lead to great success at Worlds.
An internal collapse?
C9, as the reigning champions, entered the year with immense momentum. However, their top position led to a certain arrogance among the team, making them the “antagonists” in the 2023 LCS season.
While C9 had a successful start, they began to struggle as other teams became motivated to surpass them. NRG exploited their weaknesses in the LCS Championship finals, leading to a surprising defeat for C9.
Additionally, C9 faced a controversy involving their mid laner, Emenes. His use of derogatory language during a ranked game resulted in fines and a required professionalism course. It remains unclear how this has impacted the team.
Despite these challenges, C9 still has a chance to bring the Summoner’s Cup back to North America. With proper gameplay adjustments, they could achieve great success at Worlds.
A return to form
Team Liquid, known for recruiting talented players from around the world, initially struggled to find success. Their roster of storied talent failed to mesh together, resulting in inconsistent performances.
However, Liquid had a backup plan. They brought in APA from the developmental scene, and his unique champion pool and skill quickly turned the team’s luck around. Liquid secured a spot in the LCS Championship bracket and will be competing at Worlds.
While some players on the roster have previous Worlds experience, APA and Yeon will face many new challenges. Liquid has shown their determination and willingness to fight in their summer performance.
Three’s a crowd
Golden Guardians had the opportunity to join their fellow LCS teams at Worlds but fell short in the Worlds Qualifier series. This means that North America will only be represented by Cloud9, Team Liquid, and NRG.
These teams will face tough competition from other regions in the Swiss stage. NRG, in particular, is entering as the first seed and has the chance to surprise their opponents. All three teams have the potential to advance to the knockout stage and make a mark at Worlds.
In conclusion, the LCS has had a tumultuous year filled with surprises and challenges. The three teams representing North America at Worlds will have to overcome tough opponents to secure success.