T1’s Current Drama, One Player Also “Contributing”
In the days when the T1 – Gumayusi drama is still hot and has seen new developments, one of the most mentioned names is Zeus. According to many opinions, Zeus’s departure is justified as the T1 management shows inadequacies in treating players. But it is possible that Zeus’s exit has contributed to creating this drama.
Specifically, until now, there has almost never been a precedent for a hasty and dramatic exit like T1 – Zeus, especially in the history of this team. Of course, each side has its own arguments, and T1 directing public opinion towards Zeus is also difficult to accept. However, it is clear that T1 has the right and has taken measures to prevent a “second Zeus” in the future.
And the name being “called out” for T1 to use to prevent similar incidents like Zeus is Gumayusi. Broadly speaking, the 2002-born ADC has all the “qualities” for T1’s management to choose as a “sacrificial lamb”: a player from T1’s training academy, has the largest fanbase in the team (only after Faker and perhaps previously Zeus), proven talent, a distinct personality, and a strong ego. Importantly, Gumayusi was once directed to be T1’s new visual in the future.
Therefore, it is not Oner (a player who often fluctuates in performance and rarely shows excessive ego) or Keria (a player too “gentle”). Gumayusi will be extremely suitable for T1 to prepare for those who want to repeat Zeus’s “path.” Gumayusi’s 1+1 contract is reasonable for this player to have future options, while also ensuring T1 does not fall into a passive position.
Promoting Smash is T1’s “overreach”
In fact, T1 did not need to promote Smash too hastily. This player has not particularly stood out throughout the 2024 season. The top 4 Challengers achievement has significantly contributed from Rekkles – the LEC Super ADC and other names, such as Poby – who has had a “study abroad” period in the LCK.
Clearly, Smash has shown that taking a position in the first team to replace Gumayusi is too much for him. Now, due to the mistakes of the management, this young ADC has to bear pressures that can be described as overwhelming for a rookie. It could even ruin Smash’s career if T1 does not perform well this season.
It is understandable for T1 to avoid situations similar to Zeus, as it is a business corporation. But the subsequent hasty actions, along with inappropriate handling, are causing T1’s efforts to backfire, leaving players and fans as the ones who suffer the most.