The Mid-Season Invitational Returns! Here Are the Power Rankings:
The first international League of Legends tournament of 2022 is finally here. After a quick Spring Split, regional champions will compete in South Korea for one of pro League’s most prestigious championships, the Mid-Season Invitational.
Compared to our last global power rankings from the preseason, only two familiar faces, T1 and Royal Never Give Up, are back in the mix. This is because MSI features more teams from minor regions than major regions. MSI will feature 11 teams this season instead of 12. The VCS, who missed last year’s event due to the pandemic, is not participating this year. Likewise, the CIS region, the LCL, will not take part due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Power Rankings Ahead of MSI:
| Rank | Team | Home Region |
|---|---|---|
| 1) | T1 | LCK |
| 2) | Royal Never Give Up | LPL |
| 3) | G2 Esports | LEC |
| 4) | Evil Geniuses | LCS |
| 5) | PSG Talon | PCS |
| 6) | DetonatioN FocusMe | LJL |
| 7) | RED Canids | CBLOL |
| 8) | ORDER | LCO |
| 9) | Istanbul Wildcats | TCL |
| 10) | Saigon Buffalo | VCS |
| 11) | Team Aze | LLA |
11) Team Aze
Teams from the LLA have struggled in international games. Team Aze, with a roster of players without international experience, is unlikely to perform well at MSI 2022.
10) Saigon Buffalo
The VCS is finally back at an international event. However, Saigon Buffalo, as the runners-up, will face tough competition against regional champions. It’s unlikely that Saigon Buffalo will advance far in the tournament.
9) Istanbul Wildcats
The Istanbul Wildcats return to MSI with the same roster as last year. Despite their strong performance in past tournaments, the TCL region has been inconsistent. The Wildcats will need to prove themselves against stronger competition.
8) ORDER
ORDER from the LCO region surprised everyone by winning the spring playoffs. This will be their first international event, but they have experienced players who can handle the pressure. They face tough opponents in the group stage, but miracles are possible.
7) RED Canids
RED Canids is looking to make a name for themselves at MSI. They had a strong showing at Worlds last year and are bringing back the same roster. With their experience and determination, they are contenders for a spot in the knockout stage.
6) DetonatioN FocusMe
DetonatioN FocusMe made history for the LJL region by qualifying for the main stage of Worlds. They dominated the LJL Spring Split and have shown great potential. This year, they are aiming to prove that they can compete with the top regions.
5) PSG Talon
PSG Talon made an impact at MSI last year by defeating teams from major regions. However, they have become more reliant on their bottom lane. If the rest of the team can step up, PSG Talon has a chance to make another deep run in the tournament.
4) Evil Geniuses
Evil Geniuses emerged as the champions of the LCS Spring Split. They have a young roster with limited international experience. Their success will depend on how well they adapt to the strategies of other teams.
3) G2 Esports
G2 Esports reclaimed the European throne with a dominant performance in the LEC playoffs. They have a mix of veteran and rookie talent that has proven resilient under pressure. If they can maintain their form, they can challenge the top teams in the tournament.
2) Royal Never Give Up
Royal Never Give Up won the LPL Spring Split and are seeking to defend their MSI title. They have a cohesive team and excel in late-game adaptability. With a strong roster, they are a force to be reckoned with.
1) T1
T1 dominated the LCK Spring Split, becoming the first team to go undefeated. They have an impressive roster with standout performances from multiple players. With their strong form, T1 is the team to beat at MSI.
Mid-Season Invitational, MSI, League of Legends, T1, Royal Never Give Up, G2 Esports, Evil Geniuses, PSG Talon, DetonatioN FocusMe, RED Canids, ORDER, Istanbul Wildcats, Saigon Buffalo.