Only the final match remains in the third stage of the LPL’s Knight’s Road, where WBG and LGD will compete. The tension in this BO5 seems limited. Despite LGD’s nickname as “water ghosts,” there’s a clear difference in skill level between the teams. JD should be able to finish swiftly if they avoid serious errors, but it’s not guaranteed because Scout’s condition is still unknown.

After these two teams battle for the last playoff spot, the LPL will officially enter the postseason. Due to the anniversary celebrations, there will be a four-day break, with playoffs kicking off on the 7th. The first two days each have two BO5 matches scheduled, which already seems unreasonable. The anniversary event could start earlier, allowing a two-day break and ensuring fans have matches to watch every day.

Although the official schedule hasn’t been released yet, some event platforms have recently posted the playoff timetable. According to this schedule, the top two teams in the group stage, TES and IG, are set to play at 2 PM. T1 has a slightly better slot since the 7th is a Sunday when most people can watch. IG, however, faces a tough spot on Monday at 2 PM, when most viewers are still at work and unable to watch.

If the schedule is truly like this, it suggests the organizers don’t understand who the real stars are. The match between T1 and IG will definitely attract more viewers than BLG or AL. Also, since they finished top two in the regular season, they deserve a prime time slot. Many fans have already criticized the schedule after seeing it, though since it’s not official yet, adjustments might still happen.

Multiple platforms, not just one or two, have published this schedule. Besides the official livestream and website, most event previews show the same arrangement. So, it seems quite credible. However, it’s possible that after backlash, the organizers might move the IG and T1 match to 5 PM. The final decision will likely come after the JDG vs. LGD match concludes and teams are finalized.

T1 and IG both finished top two in the Peak Group and get first pick of their playoff opponents. The organizers might have considered that both teams would choose weaker opponents to secure playoff results. Such predictable matches are less appealing to viewers, which might explain the 2 PM scheduling. But honestly, IG’s popularity is so strong that even putting five audience members on stage wouldn’t match their hype compared to AL and BLG.

If JDG advances, the possible opponents for playoffs are NIP, WBG, EDG, and JDG. T1 will likely pick from the two teams in the Rebirth Group, with NIP being the more probable choice. NIP had a tough five-game series against FPX and only won due to their opponent’s mistakes. Compared to EDG and WBG, NIP is clearly weaker, so T1 has no reason not to pick them.

IG is more likely to select EDG. Although JDG hasn’t beaten IG all year, the team’s performance floor is low, so if they regain form, a guaranteed win isn’t certain. Between BLG and JDG, I think they’d choose JDG, as BLG is in better shape. AL has no chance to be picked, so if BLG isn’t chosen, they’ll have to play.

In conclusion:

For the sake of drama, IG picking NIP would be the most entertaining scenario, but T1 probably won’t let NIP go since they gave FPX a tough fight. Such reliably winnable opponents are rare in playoffs. However, IG choosing JDG wouldn’t be bad either, as JDG is also a team with strong fan support.

So, who do you think IG will pick?

Feel free to leave your thoughts in the comments!