The LEC Playoff Picture Starts to Take Shape
This is the time of year when things start to get serious in the LEC. We’re officially in the second half of the Spring Split, and the playoff teams are separating themselves from the rest. The top squads in the league are asserting their dominance, except for G2 Esports.
G2 Esports, unlike Cloud9 in NA, is not in full tryhard mode yet. It’s evident from their recent losses to Schalke and Mad Lions. However, until someone can take away the LEC trophy from G2, they will likely continue to sit at the top of our power rankings.
Playoff Contenders and Strugglers
With the split coming to an end, time is running out for teams hoping to move up in the LEC power rankings.
Struggling Teams: Schalke, SK, Vitality
A few weeks ago, we mentioned that these teams were not the ones to watch. At the time, these three squads only managed to secure victories against each other. If a team can only defeat the weakest teams in the league, it reflects their own weakness. However, Schalke surprised everyone by defeating G2 in week four. This victory showcased Schalke’s potential, but they stumbled in subsequent matches. Schalke’s inconsistency is highlighted by their tendency to make drafting mistakes.
Emerging Contenders: Mad Lions, Rogue, Excel
There is a significant gap between the bottom-tier teams and those who can compete for a playoff spot. While these emerging contenders have their flaws, they have shown the ability to challenge even the top teams. Excel has displayed flashes of brilliance, but their mistakes can be frustrating. Rogue has a strong lane phase but struggles to close out games. Mad Lions have made a promising push for the playoffs, with impressive wins against G2 and Fnatic.
The Consistent Performers: Misfits, Origen
Misfits and Origen stand out from the rest because of their consistency. Aside from Misfits’ loss to Rogue, they have performed well against teams below them in the rankings. Alphari, who previously played for Misfits and now plays for Origen, has been exceptional. While Misfits have compensated for his absence with stronger performances from mid laner Febiven, they will need more standout moments to secure a top-two spot. The upcoming matches against G2 and Fnatic will test these teams and reveal their true potential.
G2 and Fnatic: Dominance and Second Place
G2 Esports is unrivaled this split. Despite a few losses, they remain the best team in Europe. They have received nearly all the first-place votes in our power rankings. It will take something unexpected to change our minds. Unfortunately for Fnatic, this means they are locked into second place. While Fnatic is a strong team, their fate is tied to G2’s dominance. Only a playoff win against G2 can dethrone them.
All photos via Riot Games.
LEC, Spring Split, G2 Esports, playoff, squads, contenders, strugglers, emerging, consistent, dominance, Fnatic