Thus, after more than 2 months, the 2022 LCK Summer Split has concluded with the championship going to Gen.G Esports (Gen.G). This season can be described as one of the most perfect in the history of this team. With this championship, players like Chovy, Doran, Lehends, and Ruler have taken home their first LCK title in their careers.
On the other hand, T1, the defeated opponent of Gen.G, also had a commendable season. Although they could not successfully defend their LCK championship, Faker and his teammates showed tremendous effort. However, the 2022 World Championship (Worlds 2022) is approaching. And certainly, T1’s players must promptly address the significant weaknesses that emerged during the recent Summer Split.
Over-reliance on Zeus and Oner
League of Legends (LoL) is a team-oriented game. Of course, individuals can still shine and “carry the team.” But the strength of a cohesive team that develops together is always better than a few lone stars. In the recent Summer Split, Gen.G’s all-star roster encompassed both elements: a prestigious, talented lineup and individuals who knew how to shine at the right moments.
On the other hand, T1 often relied on individual brilliance. At times, Zeus and Oner stepped up, while Faker had moments of brilliance. However, this reliance ultimately led to T1’s disadvantage against Gen.G. On a day when Oner was countered, having only Zeus in top form was not enough. In all three matches, T1’s struggles became evident when Zeus was completely shut down.
Gumayusi needs to regain his form immediately
With the current playstyle still revolving around the ADC, Gumayusi’s loss of form can be seen as a significant reason for T1’s poor results. Using Zeri as a reference point, while Ruler made the entire LoL community tremble, Gumayusi was completely overpowered by… Ruler.
T1 still has superstar players who can “carry the team” in Gumayusi’s absence. However, as a world-class ADC, the “Prince” needs to regain his form as soon as possible before the upcoming Worlds 2022. Because names like GALA, Viper, and JackeyLove can sometimes outperform even Ruler. If that happens, Gumayusi and the T1 team will face even greater challenges.
A top-tier coaching staff
This is a controversial factor and has been voiced by T1 fans themselves. Currently, T1 does not have a coaching staff with enough experience to compete for titles. However, the reality is that finding someone to fill that role with such limited time left is almost impossible.
Perhaps, what T1’s coaching staff can do now is to help the players clearly identify the objectives and strategies they need to implement. All teams coming to Worlds 2022 possess highly experienced coaching staff. This could become a weakness that might lead T1 to leave empty-handed at this year’s Worlds.
Conclusion
From now until the official start of Worlds 2022, T1 still has some time to rest and prepare. Faker’s career’s conclusion is approaching, and certainly, no T1 fan or the LoL community wants to see Faker go through another empty season on the international stage.