The LEC Summer Split Update: G2 Esports in Danger, MAD Lions and Rogue Keep Rising
The LEC had a strong start to the Summer Split with new teams emerging at the top and established teams facing challenges. However, G2 Esports’ recent performance has put them in danger of missing out on Worlds, marking a significant slump for the team. Let’s take a closer look at the current state of the LEC.
In week five, we witnessed some great games and saw the strong teams continue to rise to the top. However, G2 Esports had their first 0-2 week and their ranking slipped to fifth. This unexpected decline puts their chances of making it to Worlds at risk, which is a complete turnaround from a month ago.
The Current Standings and the Upset
To understand the extent of G2’s fall, our League analysts have rated each team on a scale of one to ten. Despite G2’s recent struggles, there is still hope in their talent and ability to bounce back. The current top teams in the LEC are:
| Rank | Team | Points | Rank Change |
| 1) | MAD Lions | 50 | — |
| 2) | Rogue | 45 | — |
| 3) | Origen | 40 | +1 |
| 4) | Fnatic | 33 | +1 |
| 5) | G2 Esports | 32 | -2 |
| 6) | SK Gaming | 25 | +1 |
| 7) | Misfits | 20 | -1 |
| 8) | Excel Esports | 14 | — |
| 9) | Team Vitality | 11 | — |
| 10) | FC Schalke 04 | 5 | — |
Although G2’s drop in rankings is concerning, it’s important to note that six teams will make it to the playoffs. With half of the split remaining, G2 still has a chance to turn things around. However, they cannot afford to fall further behind, especially with teams like SK Gaming on the rise.
Excel, Vitality, Schalke: The Playoff Race
At the bottom of the table, Schalke is clearly out of contention and needs to focus on testing young talent for the future. Excel and Vitality, on the other hand, are very much in the playoff race. With identical records of 4-7, they are just one win away from tying for sixth place, where G2 and Misfits currently sit. Making it to the playoffs would provide valuable experience for the players on these teams.
However, it’s important for Excel and Vitality to approach this season with a long-term perspective. Even if they manage to sneak into the playoffs, their chances of advancing further are slim. The best-of-one regular season format favors upsets, but in the playoffs, these teams will likely be exposed. They should focus on experimenting and preparing for the future, rather than solely aiming for immediate victories.
SK and Misfits: The Challengers
SK Gaming has been a surprising contender this split, with wins against strong teams early on. Their recent 2-0 performance against the weaker teams in the region solidifies their position. SK has shown consistent improvement, becoming one of the fastest winning teams in Europe. If they continue this trend, they could make a significant impact in the playoffs.
Misfits, on the other hand, had a disappointing 0-2 week, erasing the positives from their previous win against MAD Lions. While they are tied with G2, it’s unlikely that they will secure a playoff spot by the end of the split. The performance of their jungler, Razork, has been inconsistent, which may further hinder their chances.
Fnatic and G2: The Old Titans
In terms of the old titans, Fnatic and G2, both teams have faced struggles recently. Fnatic managed to stabilize with a win last week, although their performance wasn’t flawless. G2, on the other hand, suffered losses to Origen and MAD Lions. G2’s failure to draft appropriately for their relatively immobile laners resulted in defeats. However, both teams still have a chance to bounce back and secure higher rankings.
MAD Lions, Rogue, and Origen: The Powerhouses
MAD Lions and Rogue took early control of the LEC, securing top spots in the rankings. Origen had a more challenging path but has managed to regain their form. Top laner Alphari has been instrumental in their success, showcasing his skills on various champions. Origen has an opportunity to earn more wins in the coming weeks and establish themselves as a top contender for Worlds. However, with six strong playoff-caliber teams, two will be left out, so Origen must maintain their performance to avoid being excluded.
Overall, the LEC has been filled with surprises and intense competition. As the split progresses, teams will need to adapt and improve to secure their spots in the playoffs. The battle for Worlds qualification remains fierce.
All photos via Riot Games.
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