Is ShowMaker truly deserving of the criticisms he's receiving from many LoL fans?
In the Semifinal 2 match of LCK Spring 2022, DWG KIA officially dethroned after losing to Gen.G Esports. Notably, DK lost despite leading in the decisive game 5. Witnessing ShowMaker and teammates with a 10k gold lead, many believed DK would recreate the LCK Summer 2021 finals and the 2021 Worlds Semifinals against T1.

However, disappointment reigns for DK players, particularly ShowMaker. This isn't the first time the 2000-born player has become a target of criticism within the LoL community. Especially this Spring 2022, the criticism towards ShowMaker has intensified.



An undeniable fact is that ShowMaker's performance has notably declined this Spring compared to the 2021 season. Throughout the group stage, DK often relied on Canyon's outstanding carry ability to win or lose matches. Meanwhile, ShowMaker's performances were lackluster, with his MVP score being the lowest among top LCK mid laners.


But, is ShowMaker deserving of criticism for his performances in Spring 2022? This season marks the first where ShowMaker only has Canyon as a constant teammate. Thus, the synergy in each play can't be compared to when ShowMaker played alongside familiar teammates since their Challenger days. Furthermore, compared to players like Ghost-BeryL or Khan/Nuguri, names like Burdol/Hoya or the Deokdam-Kellin duo simply lack the experience and caliber for titles or extraordinary plays.

During DK's domination of LCK (from Summer 2020 to the end of the 2021 season), ShowMaker always received significant resources. However, in the current meta, mid laners are required to play more passively, yielding the spotlight to ADCs. Take T1's playstyle as a prime example. Despite Faker shining at times, Gumayusi and occasionally Zeus are the ones receiving resources. When ShowMaker also has to play a supporting role or lacks resources, he fades compared to his former self from previous seasons.

Furthermore, another factor contributing to ShowMaker's declining form is the excessive expectations from the LoL community, especially within LCK. During DK's reign in the Korean LoL scene, ShowMaker was seen as the 'new monument' for LCK in case Faker retired. He possessed a wide champion pool akin to the 'Demon King.' ShowMaker garnered glory from a young age and possessed a versatile playstyle. Alongside Canyon, they formed the most harmonious jungle-mid duo since the Bengi-Faker era. All these factors led to immense expectations on ShowMaker.

With greater expectations come greater responsibilities. SMK's form has declined similarly to Faker's during the ups and downs of his career. However, ShowMaker is undoubtedly facing criticism akin to Faker from 2018 to 2020. The difference is that Faker endured pressure after achieving all possible glory. ShowMaker, on the other hand, has only touched the Worlds trophy once and hasn't won any MSI titles.

Perhaps, in the Summer 2022 season, ShowMaker and DK will return to their familiar path of destruction. However, one thing is certain: SMK never claimed to be the new monument of LCK, but he is indeed the 'victim' of overwhelming expectations from fans.