2021 LCS Summer Split: Power Rankings Update
The second week of the LCS Summer Split brought some changes to the standings and our power rankings. As the league continues to find its footing after several weeks off, certain teams have made a statement and set the tone for the rest of the region.
At the start of last week, TSM held the top spot in both the LCS standings and our power rankings. However, this week, two different teams have claimed those positions, while TSM has fallen off the radar.
The landscape of the LCS remains largely unchanged, but there are notable shifts that have influenced our power rankings for the week. Our League of Legends writers at have voted on the current strengths of each team in the LCS after two weeks of the Summer Split. Here’s how they stack up in our latest edition of the LCS power rankings:
| Rank | Team | Rank change |
| 1) | 100 Thieves | +3 |
| 2) | Cloud9 | — |
| 3) | TSM | -2 |
| 4) | Team Liquid | -1 |
| 5) | Dignitas | — |
| 6) | Evil Geniuses | +2 |
| 7) | Immortals | -1 |
| 8) | FlyQuest | -2 |
| 9) | CLG | — |
| 10) | Golden Guardians | — |
Struggling Organizations: CLG and Golden Guardians
Both CLG and Golden Guardians find themselves in need of a significant change after two weeks of the Summer Split. CLG has endured a tough year and is struggling to find success. Despite having experienced players on their roster, they have yet to find a winning formula.
Many are now questioning whether it’s time for CLG to overhaul their entire organization, from the roster to the coaching staff and management. Gone are the days when CLG was a force to be reckoned with. It may be time for fresh talent and new leadership to breathe life into the team.
As for Golden Guardians, their performance aligns with expectations since they opted for a developmental roster this year. They made some changes before the Summer Split, but these additions haven’t significantly improved their chances of making the playoffs. It would be wise for Golden Guardians to focus on nurturing their emerging LCS players for the future.
The Middle of the Pack: Evil Geniuses, Immortals, FlyQuest
The midsection of the standings has been a battleground for teams like Evil Geniuses, Immortals, and FlyQuest. These teams have experienced both impressive wins and disappointing losses, leading to fluctuations in our rankings.
Evil Geniuses had a standout performance last week, particularly with the debut of Danny as their ADC. His unexpected inclusion in the starting lineup paid off, as he played a key role in their victory against Team Liquid. This win, along with their triumph over a strong IMT squad, has propelled Evil Geniuses up two spots in our power rankings.
Immortals made waves in week one of the Summer Split with an undefeated weekend. However, their subsequent 0-3 performance has knocked them down our rankings. Xerxe’s exceptional play on Rumble jungle still deserves recognition, and we remain hopeful that Immortals will find their footing in the coming weeks.
FlyQuest has been struggling to make an impact, especially after difficult matchups. While losing to C9 is expected, being completely dominated by them raises concerns. Their loss to Golden Guardians, who have shown improvement, further highlights FlyQuest’s current struggles. They need to find consistency to rise in the standings.
Battling for Position: TSM, Team Liquid, Dignitas
TSM, Team Liquid, and Dignitas are engaged in a fierce competition as they jostle for position in the LCS standings. While TSM started the season strong, they faced setbacks in the second week, leaving uncertainty about their place in the pecking order. Losses against 100 Thieves and FlyQuest have caused doubt among TSM fans.
Team Liquid had a solid week, but they fall just short of the top teams in the LCS. However, Tactical and Jenkins have been standout performers. Tactical’s recent gameplay has been among the best he has shown in the past six months, while Jenkins has delivered exceptional performances on Gangplank despite challenging circumstances.
Dignitas remains a gatekeeping team in our power rankings. They have the tendency to beat lower-ranked teams like Immortals, but struggle against higher-ranked opponents like Liquid and C9. Dardoch has adapted well to the Divine Sunderer meta, and Neo continues to showcase his talents as a domestic ADC.
Top Contenders: 100 Thieves, Cloud9
The rivalry between 100 Thieves and Cloud9 continues to heat up as they battle for supremacy in the LCS. While C9 holds the edge in the official standings, 100 Thieves has claimed the top spot in our power rankings this week. They have shown consistent momentum and are contenders for the LCS title.
The disparity between the LCS standings and our rankings arises from the fact that C9 is not yet playing at their full strength. The decision to field K1ng, a rookie, over the proven champion Zven raises questions about C9’s strategy. Zven’s dominant performances at the Academy level highlight his potential, and it’s puzzling to see him on the sidelines.
Currently, 100 Thieves is the hottest team in North America. Abbedagge, FBI, and CIoser have been exceptional, leading the team to impressive victories. Their individual performances rank them among the leaders in KDA among all LCS players. If they maintain this level of play, 100 Thieves could surpass their competitors in the standings.
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LCS, Summer Split, power rankings, teams, standings, competition, TSM, Team Liquid, Cloud9, 100 Thieves, rivals, contenders