Controversy Erupts on League of Legends Subreddit: Korean Coach Banned for Seven Days
Reddit can be a crazy place, especially when it comes to video games and esports. The League of Legends subreddit has had some rather interesting takes over the years, from criticizing Riot Games to trash talking players and teams.
The latest drama on the subreddit revolves around the controversial Korean coach and caster, Nick “LS” De Cesare. He has been banned from posting on the subreddit for seven days.
In a recent stream, LS made statements indicating that Team Liquid is the best Western team and some of the worst LCK teams could beat G2, the top team in the LEC. This upset many European League fans.
LS’s comments caught the attention of fellow Korean caster, Chris “PapaSmithy” Smith, who disagreed with LS’s take. However, the two engaged in a cordial exchange and even agreed to jointly cast the upcoming LCK final between SKT and Griffin.
Someone posted PapaSmithy’s response to Reddit, which seemed to trigger LS. His issue wasn’t with PapaSmithy disagreeing, but with people constantly trying to discredit his opinions. After the dust settled, he was banned from the subreddit.
We’re not exactly sure why LS was banned or why his statements blew up on Reddit. Controversy is nothing new for LS, but this reaction seems excessive. LS should handle criticism better and not blow up on social media.
Whether you agree or disagree with LS, it’s possible to hold an opinion and still be respectful and cordial with those on both sides of an issue. LS is not only an analyst and coach but also an entertainer. Entertainers push buttons and boundaries, or they become irrelevant.
It’s easy to clap back at someone on Reddit or Twitter, or even ban them from a site. But this hinders genuine, thoughtful discussions through online media.
Update April 12, 4:25pm CT: LS announced in a tweet that he unknowingly violated a subreddit rule against vote brigading and believes his suspension is fair within that rule.