NA LCS Playoffs: Team Impulse vs Team Dignitas
The NA LCS summer split is coming to an exciting end as teams battle for a world championship berth. The competition this year has been equal, with each team showing both dominance and slumps throughout the split. This makes the playoffs even more unpredictable, as any team has the potential to come out on top in a Best of Five series.
North America’s Struggles
The North American region has faced criticism and jokes after Team SoloMid’s disappointing performance at the Mid Season Invitational in May. Many believed that North America was falling behind, with European teams as the only hope for the West on the international stage. However, as the regular season comes to a close, some teams are rising from mediocrity while others continue to struggle.
Regular Season Recap
Team Dignitas (10-8):
Team Dignitas started the split with a 4-1 record and showed early dominance. However, they experienced a mid-season slump and dropped in the standings. They are coming into the playoffs with nothing to lose, but will still want to prove themselves as a dark horse.
Team Impulse (13-6):
Team Impulse had a slow start, but gained momentum in the second half of the split. Despite some roster changes and controversy, they are coming into the playoffs with their eyes set on the first seed prize for Worlds.
Head to Head Matches
These teams have faced each other twice in the regular season, with both matches resulting in a 1-1 tie. In their first match, Team Dignitas won with impressive plays from Gamsu and Shiphtur. However, in their second match, Team Impulse turned the tables and outplayed Dignitas.
Comparing the Teams
In terms of individual skill, both teams are evenly matched except for the jungle role where Rush of Team Impulse stands out. However, Team Impulse has shown better team play and map control, with more kills and objectives per minute. Dignitas, on the other hand, relies more on individual skill and does not excel in macro play.
Lane Match-ups
Gate vs Shiphtur:
Gate, the substitute mid laner for Team Impulse, has shown promise but lack of experience against top tier mid laners may be exploited by Dignitas. However, Shiphtur’s own laning problems, like falling behind in CS, may hinder Dignitas’ chances of winning.
Impact vs Gamsu:
Both top laners have been influential in their team’s wins. While Gamsu has shown carry potential, Impact has remained consistent and reliable. It’s unlikely that Gamsu will be able to solo carry against Impact’s solid play.
Rush:
Rush, the jungler for Team Impulse, has been a crucial aspect of their success. While he can be underwhelming on certain champions, he consistently makes plays and creates advantages through kills. Dignitas will have to ban out his threatening champions to limit his impact.
Kiwikid & CoreJJ vs Apollo & Adrian:
Adrian, the support for Team Impulse, has been a standout player this split with his vision control and playmaking ability. Apollo is known for his Sivir play and Dignitas must be cautious of its impact. The AD carry meta shift favors CoreJJ of Dignitas, but Apollo is still a strong player. Both bot lanes have shown potential but also weaknesses.
Winners and Losers:
Team Impulse is the heavy favorite in this match-up. Their recent winning streak solidifies their position as the most “in-form” team. While Dignitas has shown early success, they often struggle to close out games. Team Impulse’s strong team play and ability to win against tough opponents make them the likely winners of this match-up.
NA LCS, playoffs, Team Impulse, Team Dignitas, competition, dominance, slumps, regular season, head to head, lane match-ups, winners, losers