TheShy’s Kalista Top Lane Strategy Could Change the Meta
The League of Legends top lane has been undergoing significant changes, and it looks like it’s about to get even more interesting with the return of the LPL on March 9. Invictus Gaming’s superstar Kang “TheShy” Seung-lok has recently been playing a lot of Kalista in the top lane since February 26.
While Kalista hasn’t been a priority pick in the West, she has already been played in 10 games in the LCK. However, she has primarily been played in the bottom lane and only holds a 40% win rate.
But TheShy’s strategy might change how Kalista is played. He rushes Sanguine Blade as his first item, followed by Blade of the Ruined King and a Zeal item. He also uses Hail of Blades as a keystone for increased attack speed. This build allows Kalista to trade effectively in lane, especially with Sanguine Blade’s passive, Blood Pursuit.
Blood Pursuit provides TheShy with eight lethality and 20 to 80% attack speed as long as there is only one or fewer visible enemy champions nearby. Since top lane is usually an isolated lane, this passive will be highly effective during the laning phase.
Furthermore, Kalista has the ability to bind to multiple champions based on priority. She can team up with a tank jungler for engaging or act as a Tahm Kench-like support by binding to a squishy carry that needs protection. However, her lack of mobility makes her vulnerable to assassins and divers. Coordinated teams can easily take advantage of this and set her back.
Another player who tried Kalista in the top lane is Cloud9’s Eric “Licorice” Ritchie, but unfortunately, he couldn’t secure a win. It’s worth noting that his bottom lane struggled, collectively dying 20 times.
The LPL will resume on March 9, and it will be interesting to see if other players adopt TheShy’s Kalista top lane strategy.