TheShy is a super-popular figure in the LPL with many fans, but after he left the LPL stage, the league’s viewership has significantly declined. Some viewers even say the LPL is “dying.” Last year, IG match videos used to get millions of views, but after TheShy left, fewer than five LPL videos have exceeded a million views in the millions. Given his enormous impact on the league, many fans eagerly look forward to his eventual return.

TheShy did not disappoint, as on the first day of the LPL transfer period, IG’s official Weibo announced that he would return as a starter in the third split. This news quickly topped various forum hotlists. Many insiders also reported that IG’s third split will see major changes: besides TheShy’s return, the original top-laner Breathe, mid-laner Soboro, and Nia have been removed. Fans are now looking forward to IG’s performance in the third split.

Just days ago, some insiders even reported that IG mid-laner Rookie would “ignore outside criticism” and return to the starting lineup in the third split. It must be said that IG’s third split lineup is stacked: top lane TheShy, jungle WEI, mid lane Rookie, and support Meiko. Of course, some fans wonder if IG will strengthen its bot duo, as that has been a weak point, especially AD carry Jiaqi, who has not shown many standout moments.

Although many are excited about TheShy’s return, some of his fans don’t understand why he would join a “rebuilding team” like IG. After a poor second split, IG will be in the “Nirvana” group in the third split, meaning lower game exposure and traffic than before. According to the LPL second split schedule, a Nirvana team only plays six BO3 matches, while a Summit team can play over ten matches per split.

Many fans believe that with his popularity and skill, TheShy could easily join any Summit team except BLG, especially TES and JDG—both strong teams lacking a top-laners. If by joining them, TheShy would have a good chance of going to Worlds, given their high LPL World Championship points and strong teammates. (What do you think is the reason for joining IG? Is he still aiming to play “brother league” with Rookie?)

IG faces an uphill battle to qualify for Worlds. Since they didn’t make the playoffs in the second split, they have very low championship points. In the third split, they must not only secure a playoff spot and finish no lower than fourth in the playoffs to participate in the LPL Regional Qualifiers. (BLG currently has the highest points; if they reach the playoffs, they are guaranteed at least the second LPL seed.)

Conclusion

TheShy’s return to competition is certainly a good thing. However, I’m personally concerned about whether he can quickly adapt to the rhythm of professional play—after all, JKL once posted 0-22 in his first matches after missing a split. That said, both TheSh and JKL are natural talents, so I look forward to IG’s performance. What do you think are IG’s chances of making it to Worlds this year?