Being the biggest hope, this player largely contributed to HLE’s defeat
Facing DK – a team known for its ups and downs in the 2025 Regular Seasons, was considered quite “manageable” for HLE at this point, especially after they just lost to Gen.G at the start of week 8. However, as the unpredictable nature has shown throughout the season, DK proved to be no “easy prey”, especially on a day when ShowMaker suddenly remembered he was the 2021 Worlds champion. However, HLE might not have lost if their players performed to their potential, especially Viper.
Viper has always been regarded as the most stable player and consistently high performer for HLE, as well as among the AD carries in the current LCK. However, in the crucial match, Viper made a very perplexing move when he separated from the team and positioned himself directly in the attack direction of ShowMaker and Aiming. Needless to say, Viper was completely taken out of the fight, leading to HLE’s failure in the decisive combat situation.
Viper’s confusing play greatly contributed to HLE’s defeat in the critical moment, leaving fans stunned. This might also be one of the rare “stumbles” of the 2021 Worlds champion. However, it highlights Viper’s importance; without him, HLE immediately fell apart, even against a team much weaker than them.
HLE at risk of losing their position to T1
With such a glaring mistake, Viper not only played a significant role in HLE’s defeat but also “helped” T1. In the following match, T1 easily defeated DN Freecs. This will put immense pressure on HLE as T1 is also eager to seize the second spot if given the chance, making their journey in the upcoming Road to MSI much smoother.
And right in the final week of the group stage, HLE will face T1 again. If this team continues to perform as they have in recent matches, the likelihood of HLE losing is very high, especially as T1 is currently showing great variety and high form.