TSM Announces Departure from LCS and Plans to Move to Another Major Region
On May 20, after being a part of the North American League of Legends scene for over 10 years, TSM revealed that it would be leaving the LCS in the near future. While TSM will remain in the League space, team owner Andy “Reginald” Dinh disclosed plans for the franchise to join another major region.
This move may come across as surprising, but according to Dinh, it has been in the works for the past three years. Reports of TSM potentially moving to Europe surfaced last July. While no official landing spot has been confirmed, TSM is considering options in Europe’s LEC, Korea’s LCK, and China’s LPL. Dinh stated that the team is looking to transition to another “tier-one” region.
Changing Landscape in the LCS
Prior to the Summer Split, Counter Logic Gaming was acquired by NRG Esports, marking the end of another historic organization in North America. TSM and CLG had a longstanding rivalry and were the only two North American teams to compete in every split of the LCS since its inception in 2013. With one team dismantled and another heading overseas, the “old LCS” as it once existed is no more.
TSM’s Departure and League-Wide Cost-Cutting Measures
The North American League is currently going through a transition period, with LCS teams focusing on cost-cutting and making their economic profiles more sustainable. Riot Games recently made the LCS’ minor-league program, the NACL, optional for franchised members, allowing teams to save money on player salaries and developmental costs.
This decision by Riot Games favors team owners and could potentially lead to an economic shift in North American League of Legends. However, this change comes too late for TSM, as the team has been working towards leaving the LCS since 2020.
The Bright Side of TSM’s Move
TSM’s departure from North America could have advantages for the team both competitively and financially. Moving to a region outside of North America, which has never won a World Championship, could be a significant step towards TSM’s goal of winning a World Championship.
Additionally, TSM’s reputation in North America has suffered in recent years due to on-stage struggles and off-stage controversies. Moving to a new region could give them a fresh start and the opportunity to develop a new fan base.
What Lies Ahead for TSM
TSM will still compete in the LCS this summer, but it will likely be their last season in the region before they make the move. The exact date of TSM’s transition to another region has not been announced yet, but it is expected to happen before 2024.
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