The LCK Playoff Race Heats Up as Spring Split Reaches Midway
The LCK is back after a week-long break, and the tension is rising as the first round robin of the Spring Split comes to an end. After four weeks of play, half of the LCK teams have winning or even records, while the other half are below .500.
Still, there’s plenty of time for all 10 teams to make a comeback in the final stretch of the split. From undefeated teams like T1 to those at the bottom of the league with only two wins, every LCK team is still fighting for a playoff spot. Clear trends are starting to emerge, with some teams on winning streaks and others consistently performing well.
LCK Power Rankings: Who’s on Top?
Our League writers have ranked the teams based on their performance in the first four weeks. Here are the current LCK power rankings:
| Rank | Team | Rank Change |
| 1) | T1 | — |
| 2) | Gen.G | — |
| 3) | DWG KIA | — |
| 4) | DRX | +2 |
| 5) | KT Rolster | -1 |
| 6) | Nongshim RedForce | -1 |
| 7) | Fredit Brion | — |
| 8) | Kwangdong Freecs | +2 |
| 9) | Hanwha Life | -1 |
| 10) | Liiv Sandbox | -1 |
Down, But Not Out: Kwangdong Freecs, Hanwha Life, Liiv Sandbox
These three teams have only won two out of their eight matches, placing them at the bottom of the LCK standings after four weeks. However, the lower half of the league is still flexible, as just one win could separate these teams from a playoff spot. With half of the league below .500, Kwangdong, Hanwha Life, and Liiv Sandbox have a chance to climb up the rankings with a series of wins. However, it’s unlikely that they will reach the level of the top contenders in the near future.
On the Cusp: Nongshim RedForce, Fredit Brion
Both Nongshim RedForce and Fredit Brion are on the edge of playoff contention, holding 3-5 records. They are currently in the middle of the pack and looking to prove themselves as top contenders. This week will be crucial for Nongshim as they face T1 and Gen.G, two top teams. A win against either of them is essential to stay in the race. A six-match losing streak could make the situation difficult for Nongshim in the second round robin.
In the Mix: DWG KIA, DRX, KT Rolster
These three teams have had a decent start to the season, hovering around the .500 mark. Although their records might not inspire confidence, they are still near the top of the standings. DRX, in particular, has been on fire recently, with a five-match winning streak. They have climbed up the standings and are only one match away from second place. With a game against DWG KIA, they have a chance to move up further and challenge Gen.G.
Despite going through a coaching change and fielding substitutes due to COVID protocols, DRX has made an impressive turnaround. However, they need to maintain their momentum in the second half of the split to secure a top spot in the standings.
Match of the Century?: T1, Gen.G
The highly anticipated match between T1 and Gen.G turned out to be a disappointment due to COVID-related issues. Gen.G had several starters sidelined, which led to an easy victory for T1. With a perfect record of 8-0, T1 has solidified its position as the best team in Korea and one of the two undefeated teams in major regions this year.
T1 and Gen.G will meet again on March 3, and that match will have even more significant playoff implications.