What is CLG’s LoL roster going to look like in 2021?

Counter Logic Gaming confronts a critical organizational crossroads following consecutive last-place performances throughout the 2020 LCS competitive calendar. The franchise has already initiated substantial changes by terminating coaches Kim “SSONG” Sang-soo and Weldon “Weldon” Green immediately after the regular season concluded, clearly indicating transformative shifts ahead for the historic organization. What specific strategic directions might these organizational transformations take?

The competitive squad faces potential comprehensive reconstruction across every playing position, yet encounters significant roster flexibility limitations with four of five starting competitors locked into agreements extending through late 2021. Should comprehensive rebuilding become necessary, CLG must prioritize economically viable alternatives that complement existing contracted athletes. Alternatively, the management could implement an expanded roster model similar to Dignitas’ approach, potentially fielding ten players to enhance internal competition and strategic flexibility.

This detailed examination explores potential strategic pathways for CLG’s competitive revitalization.

CLG’s Coaching Staff Overhaul

The coaching infrastructure represents the most glaring organizational deficiency requiring immediate resolution. CLG previously achieved competitive success under current Evil Geniuses head coach Heo “Irean” Yeong-cheol during the 2019 competitive season. Subsequent to his departure, the team has experienced significant deterioration in both strategic execution and mechanical performance, exacerbated by frequent lineup changes and role instability.

The organization currently designates Academy coach Mathew “xSojin” Alexander Perez as interim head coach. While xSojin represents the most seamless transition option and potentially most cost-effective solution due to existing contractual obligations, his tenure with CLG Academy proved disappointing with the developmental squad finishing last in Spring and achieving only fifth position in Summer.

CLG possesses multiple upgrade pathways by targeting experienced LCS head coaches such as Kublai “Kubz” Barlas or David “Cop” Roberson. The management could also evaluate recently retired professional players Paul “sOAZ” Boyer and Jonas “Kold” Andersen, both having publicly expressed coaching aspirations and potentially injecting vital energy into the struggling organization. The strategically optimal selection might involve pursuing Irean’s protégé at Evil Geniuses, Connor “Artemis” Doyle.

The 25-year-old coaching professional already boasts extensive LCS coaching experience yet hasn’t received franchise leadership opportunities. Although Evil Geniuses extended his contractual agreement through 2021, he represents an exceptional acquisition target if CLG can successfully negotiate his transfer.

Comprehensive Player Roster Evaluation

Top lane configuration represents one position potentially requiring minimal modification. Despite Kim “Ruin” Hyeong-min’s underwhelming summer split performance that resulted in temporary substitution, he has demonstrated intermittent elite-level gameplay capabilities. Available Academy prospects include promising talents like Ibrahim “Fudge” Allami and currently inactive Colin “Kumo” Zhao. However, Ruin has consistently proven capable of competing against LCS counterparts and adapting to various strategic systems CLG might implement for 2021.

Jungle positioning clearly necessitates strategic reconsideration, with Raymond “Wiggily” Griffin unlikely representing CLG’s long-term competitive solution. Established jungle specialists available include Joshua “Dardoch” Hartnett and Rami “Inori” Charagh, both having experienced multiple LCS team transitions and offering relatively economical acquisition options. Should the organization pursue youthful domestic talent without consuming import roster slots, management should target either Shane Kenneth “Kenvi” Espinoza or Xin “Nxi” Dinh from 100 Thieves’ developmental program. Another compelling alternative requiring import slot utilization would be Andrei “Xerxe” Dragomi.

Mid lane presents strategic creativity opportunities for CLG’s rebuild planning. Several American mid lane specialists currently competing in Academy leagues await main roster opportunities. Cristian “Palafox” Palafox, Nicholas “Ablazeolive” Antonio Abbot, and David “Yusui” Bloomquist represent three promising domestic talents prepared for LCS advancement, though CLG could maintain continuity with veteran presence Eugene “Pobelter” Park, who has delivered consistent performances when occupying starting roles and potentially serving as foundational rebuild cornerstone.

Bot lane configuration might require comparatively minimal adjustments. Trevor “Stixxay” Hayes has provided roster stability throughout the 2020 competitive season while evolving into team leadership responsibilities. Support role, conversely, unquestionably demands strategic revision. The most apparent internal candidate from Academy is David “Diamond” Bérubé, who has dominated secondary competitive circuits. CLG could alternatively pursue import acquisitions, targeting established European talents like Oskar “Vander” Bogdan or Mitchell “Destiny” Shaw.

Counter Logic Gaming stands among North American League of Legends’ most established organizations with demonstrated successful rebuild experience. This current reconstruction potentially represents the franchise’s most challenging revitalization effort, not due to talent departure but rather necessitating replacement of underperforming athletes and coaching personnel.

One certainty remains evident: CLG must introduce fresh talent and leadership capable of revitalizing what currently constitutes an uncompetitive squad.

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