TL;DR
- CLG released then deleted a video showing GM Tafokints discussing imminent roster changes
- The team’s 5-13 record and recent 1-2 week performance triggered management action
- Community backlash criticized the video as unprofessional and insensitive to players
- CLG apologized within hours, acknowledging the content was inappropriate
- The current roster features experienced players but faces potential imminent changes
Counter Logic Gaming sparked significant controversy by publishing an internal team discussion video that revealed general manager Daniel “Tafokints” Lee contemplating substantial roster modifications during the 2021 LCS Summer Split. This behind-the-scenes footage provided unprecedented access to sensitive team deliberations.
The recording appeared to capture moments following CLG’s disappointing 1-2 performance in their latest competitive week. Tafokints explicitly indicated his intention to implement player substitutions, suggesting this could represent “the final instance of this five-player configuration competing together.” The organization removed the content from their Twitter account merely sixty minutes after its initial publication.
During that competitive period, CLG achieved a surprising victory against TSM initially but subsequently suffered defeats against FlyQuest and Dignitas. These results positioned CLG at the league’s basement alongside Golden Guardians, maintaining a 5-13 split record. In their pursuit of playoff qualification, the organization appears poised to implement immediate roster adjustments.
“We’ve operated with this configuration for slightly more than two months without demonstrating meaningful improvement,” Tafokints explained. “Substantial modifications appear inevitable this week. I’m currently evaluating alternatives, meaning this could mark the concluding appearance of our current starting five.”
The general manager elaborated that a perfect 3-0 weekly outcome might have prevented roster moves. While the TSM victory created positive momentum, consecutive losses rapidly deteriorated the team’s situation.
CLG removes video after community backlash
Community reception to the published footage proved overwhelmingly negative. Broadcasting such a vulnerable team moment prompted numerous fans and esports professionals to criticize CLG’s decision, with many advocating for the video’s immediate removal.
Although esports enthusiasts generally appreciate organizational transparency, CLG’s direct sharing of this specific management meeting encountered widespread disapproval. Given the constant career uncertainty facing competitive players in leagues like the LCS, many observers considered this content approach tactless and unprofessional.
Approximately one hour post-release, CLG deleted the original tweet and issued an apology. The organization stated its objective was to share genuine moments with supporters but recognized that highlighting management decisions affecting player employment represented questionable judgment.
CLG’s strategy for the approaching competitive week remains uncertain, though roster alterations appear probable before their upcoming match against Team Liquid.
pic.twitter.com/OhcLEQ9ZDP
— CLG (@clgaming) July 12, 2021
What is the CLG LCS roster?
Despite persistent performance challenges throughout the season, CLG maintained consistent starting lineup selections until this point. Impending modifications now seem inevitable given recent developments.
The CLG LCS roster is:
- Top – Finn “Finn” Wiestål
- Jungle – Mads “Broxah” Brock-Pedersen
- Mid – Eugene “Pobelter” Park
- Bot – Jason “WildTurtle” Tran
- Support – Andy “Smoothie” Ta
This roster configuration combines veteran experience with established competitive pedigrees. Finn brings European top lane expertise, while Broxah contributes international championship experience from his time with Fnatic. Pobelter offers North American mid lane stability, complemented by WildTurtle’s extensive ADC background and Smoothie’s support role capabilities. For teams considering similar roster constructions, our Class Guide provides valuable insights into role specialization strategies.
Action Checklist
- Assess content sensitivity before publication – consider player welfare implications
- Monitor community response metrics within first hour of content release
- Prepare crisis communication plan for potential backlash scenarios
- Evaluate roster decisions privately before public discussion
No reproduction without permission：Games Guides Website » Drama erupts around CLG over controversial team meeting video CLG's controversial team meeting video sparks community backlash and roster change discussions