With only a few days left, MSI 2023 will officially kick off. This year’s MSI is highly anticipated, especially since the format of the tournament has been changed. These changes are expected to make MSI more exciting and thrilling. However, the new format will also require teams from smaller regions, wildcards, to put in more effort to achieve good results.
Recently, the website League on Lock announced the power rankings of teams ahead of MSI 2023. For those who may not know, this site regularly provides assessments of team strengths each week during tournaments. This ranking typically includes 10 – 20 teams and is evaluated based on form, performance, and team standings in their respective regions. Teams from LCK and LPL are often ranked highly, and it is rare for teams from smaller regions to receive attention.
According to the ranking, the top 4 teams are not surprising, gathering four names from LCK and LPL. Among them, Gen.G and T1 are ranked 1 and 2 respectively, followed by JD Gaming and Bilibili Gaming. The positions of T1 and JDG may be controversial, but in reality, T1 had an almost perfect Spring 2023. If they can win the LCK Spring 2023, even Faker and his teammates could rank 1.
Notably, in the top 8, GAM is placed 7th. This position surprised even VCS fans as GAM is ranked above G2 Esports – a strong representative from LEC. This result is controversial as G2 has not exerted much effort in the Spring tournament. Some even stated bluntly: “Rankings based solely on team performance. If GAM played against teams in LEC, LCS… it would be extremely difficult.”
– “If GAM can be ranked above G2, then this ranking needs to be reconsidered.”
– “Not underestimating GAM, but the ranking should only be taken as a reference.”
– “I just hope GAM can get through the Play-In stage.”
Additionally, the ranking also only included Kiaya and a list of notable top laners at MSI 2023. Meanwhile, the duo Levi – Kati (who are also key members of GAM) were absent. Especially Levi, as he is the factor ensuring GAM’s gameplay runs smoothly.
Kiaya is included in the top laners but Levi is absent from the jungle top – source: League on Lock
In reality, League of Legends matches always contain many surprises. Therefore, all rankings should only serve as reference points, and the audience will need to wait until the official matches take place to have the most accurate view.