TSM Adds SSONG as New Coach for 2018 Season
TSM, the defending NA LCS champions, have wasted no time this offseason in making a big move for their League team. According to an ESPN report, TSM has brought in Kim “SSONG” Sang-soo as their next coach. SSONG brings a wealth of experience, having coached top-tier teams in South Korea, including Immortals in their last LCS split.
A Change in Coaching Leadership
SSONG replaces longtime TSM coach Parth Naidu, whose future role with the team is unclear. Naidu led TSM to three straight domestic championships, but the team’s inability to advance past the group stages at Worlds may have prompted this change. SSONG’s addition to the team suggests that further changes are on the horizon.
A Preference for Strong Shot-Calling Supports
Throughout his career, SSONG has shown a preference for coaching teams led by a strong shot-calling support. In the LCS, he worked with Kim “Olleh” Joo-sun to develop Immortals’ duo lane into one of the best in the region. However, TSM’s current support, Vincent “Biofrost” Wang, doesn’t fit this mold. SSONG may help Biofrost develop as a leader or opt to bring in an established veteran for that role.
Potential for Adding Korean Talent
Adding a coach with LCK experience opens up the possibility for TSM to sign Korean players, despite their previous reluctance based on communication concerns. With a Korean coach, the organization may find it easier to integrate Korean talent into the team. TSM’s current roster consists solely of players with NA residency, giving them the flexibility to add talent from outside the region.
With the addition of SSONG, TSM is bound for significant changes to their playstyle in the upcoming 2018 season. The team’s success will depend on how they adapt to these changes and utilize the expertise of their new coach.
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