G2 Esports Announces Roster Changes for 2023 Season
G2 Esports had a mixed performance in 2022, but they are gearing up for the next season with some significant roster changes. Let’s take a look at the departures and new additions to the team.
Departures
Before the League of Legends 2022 World Championship, rumors were already swirling about changes coming to G2 in 2023. Fans identified the bot lane, particularly ADC Victor “Flakked” Lirola Tortosa, as the weakest link. The jungle position also seemed underwhelming when facing top teams. Investigative journalist Brieuc Seeger reported that both Flakked and veteran jungler Jankos were given permission to explore other options. It was confirmed later on that Jankos would be leaving G2 and have since joined Heretics. Flakked, on the other hand, reportedly reached a verbal agreement with Team Heretics Academy to play in the Spanish LVP.
Another surprise departure is Raphaël “Targamas” Crabbé, who is leaving to join Excel Esports. Despite being a rookie in 2022, Targamas had a strong season and was among the best supports in Europe. However, G2 decided to part ways with him.
G2 Will Rely on Experienced Players
To fill the gap left by Targamas, G2 made an interesting move by bringing back their former support player, Mikyx, according to reports. Mikyx will be joined by former Team Liquid ADC Hans Sama, who has returned to Europe after a disappointing season in North America.
Hans Sama left Team Liquid in September and became a free agent. It has been reported that he will be playing for G2 as the starting ADC. This lineup will feature four experienced players who will provide the ideal environment for the team’s new addition, Mikyx and Hans Sama.
Introducing a Rising Superstar
The only position left to fill on G2’s roster for 2023 is the jungler. Although attempts to secure MAD Lions’ Javier “Elyoya” Prades Batalla were unsuccessful, G2 managed to acquire Martin “Yike” Sundelin from the French team LDLC OL. Yike had a strong year in the LFL, winning both splits and performing well in the European Masters. He has proven to be a flexible jungler and is considered one of the top ERL prospects.
If the rumored roster becomes reality, Yike will be the only rookie on G2 in 2023. He will have big shoes to fill as he replaces Jankos, but with the support of experienced teammates, he has the potential to take his play to the next level.
In a recent stream, Jankos accidentally leaked G2’s roster moves by mentioning Yike during a lobby mishap. Although the pick-up has not been officially confirmed, it seems likely based on the comments from both Jankos and G2’s Twitter account.
While the roster changes haven’t been officially announced, fans are eager to see how G2 will perform in the 2023 season. Stay tuned for more updates!