As we know, the upcoming MSI 2022 will feature the official tournament version 12.8, which includes a series of notable changes. The dominant champions from the spring tournament have been significantly nerfed to make way for fresher names. So, which unexpected champions might shine at the upcoming MSI 2022? Let’s explore.
The first name to mention is Pantheon, not in the Support position but as a Mid Laner. This Warlord has received a substantial buff in patch 12.7, increasing the damage range of his Q – Comet Spear, while his E no longer slows himself. Therefore, despite a slight reduction in his basic healing, Pantheon’s overall power has significantly increased.
During the time that patch 12.7 was updated, Faker frequently used Pantheon in the Mid Lane, showing great effectiveness. Not stopping there, T1’s Keria also effectively utilized this champion in the Support role, taking advantage of the significant buff to the Black Mist. Broadly speaking, in the Grandmaster rank on the Korean server, Pantheon currently boasts a win rate of 52.7%, an impressive figure.
As for the Bot Lane, audiences seem to be too familiar with the matchups of Aphelios and Jinx recently as they have been continuously featured. However, this will change as Riot has consistently nerfed these two champions in patches 12.7 and 12.8. As a result, in the Grandmaster rank in Korea (where many players participating in MSI 2022 are practicing), Lucian has replaced the aforementioned champions to rise to the position of the strongest Marksman.
As of now, Lucian has a pick rate of 24.6% and a win rate of 51.8% in the Korean Grandmaster environment. These figures result from the current League of Legends meta emphasizing gaining significant advantages early in the Bot Lane. Clearly, with a champion designed to dominate the lane like Lucian, he will fit perfectly into the current aggressive meta in the lower half of the map.
The final surprising name that could dominate MSI 2022 is Aatrox. Despite not being buffed or having significant adjustments, this champion has consistently maintained a high win rate of 51% at the Grandmaster rank in Korea. Perhaps with top-tier players using him, Aatrox will unleash his full strength and “carry potential.” Moreover, with the current meta focusing on the lower lane, a champion capable of independently contesting well in the Top Lane like Aatrox is extremely suitable.
