The first stage of the LPL new season is set to begin in one week. This transfer window saw many frontline players taking breaks, prompting officials to raise the world championship points for the first stage winner directly from 20 to 80. Apart from the 7th and 8th places staying the same, all other ranking points increased. This adjustment makes the first stage more influential on World Championship qualification, causing significant difficulties for Top Esports.

If JKL doesn’t return, it will likely be hard for Top Esports to perform well. However, given this year’s roster, his return might not make much difference since both the coach and jungle-support roles have changed. Compared to last year, Top Esports’ theoretical strength has dropped significantly. In a group full of strong teams, Top Esports might even finish last. By comparison, IG, JDG, and WBG are all stronger, and the big and small kings AL and BLG are on another level altogether.

OMG denies match-fixing rumors

LPL insider Hanyi recently revealed during a live chat with Zhu Kai that many LPL teams are involved in match-fixing, specifically naming OMG. As a veteran powerhouse that once upheld an all-Chinese roster philosophy, it’s hard to believe OMG would engage in such behavior. Although the team has struggled in recent years, OMG was once a top contender in the LPL. Crucially, Hanyi only made claims without providing any concrete evidence. Upon hearing this, OMG immediately issued a denial.

OMG’s official account posted: Since its establishment, the club has maintained a zero-tolerance policy towards match-fixing. After rumors surfaced, OMG quickly contacted the authorities and confirmed that no evidence of match-fixing has been received. For those spreading false accusations, OMG will pursue legal action depending on the situation. Surprisingly, they have not directly sued Hanyi yet, which is puzzling, as defaming a team’s reputation should at least warrant an apology.

Redmi’s interview again hints at criticism of the LPL

At the LCK Cup team selection event, HLE sent captain Kanavi and coach Redmi. Representatives from various teams were interviewed on site. Kanavi declared his ambition to lead HLE to achieve great results at the World Championship and MSI, aiming to win as many titles as possible. When asked about the changes he noticed after returning to the LCK, Redmi’s answer subtly criticized the LPL.

Coach Homme said: There are many differences, such as players being very reliable, and both players and coaching staff having a very systematic approach, which greatly helps me. Having just returned from the LPL to the LCK, saying Korean players are dependable implies that LPL players are not? Every interview seems to throw shade at the LPL. Although their performance is indeed weaker compared to the LCK, there’s no need to always take a jab during interviews.

Average age of LCK teams revealed

LCK fans recently compiled statistics on the average age of players by team and position. Among the ten teams, DK and BFX have the youngest average player age at just 21 years old. HLE, BRO, and DRX each average 23 years. KT, T1, NS, and DNS average 24 years, while GEN has the oldest average age at 25, marking a 4-year difference between the youngest and oldest teams.

By position, the average ages for top lane, jungle, AD carry, and support are all 23 years, while mid lane averages 24 years. Overall, LCK players’ average age is not particularly low and is comparable to our region. For example, BLG’s average age is 24.4, close to T1 and KT. However, the LCK does have significantly more rookies. This winter transfer window, the LPL recruited many young Korean players.

Conclusion:

The LPL’s current youth training system is indeed in disarray. Only a few teams still persist in developing rookies, while most clubs have either disbanded their second teams or given up. If this continues, the LPL will likely have to buy a large number of Korean imports again in the coming years. The officials really need to step up and provide some incentives or rewards to improve youth development.

What are your thoughts on Redmi’s remarks?

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