Buzz
TheShy could be the perfect piece for SofM and WBG.
SofM and WBG themselves will also be 'freed'
To explain this, let's revisit TheShy's champion pool compared to Bin's. As everyone knows, Bin excels when playing carry champions. This is widely recognized by those who closely follow the LPL and Suning. It could even be argued that when TheShy's performance declines, Bin becomes even more effective in the 'top lane carry team' playstyle.
However, due to Bin's limited champion pool, it inadvertently restricts SofM, who plays alongside him in the top lane. The Vietnamese player is forced to consistently use champions that can support Bin the best. Previously, Suning understood how to make Bin play most effectively, so they couldn't risk doing otherwise and risk failure.
With TheShy's wide champion pool, SofM and the entire WBG team will have more flexibility in drafting. If TheShy plays tanks, SofM can use damage-dealing champions like Viego or Graves more frequently, and vice versa. According to statistics from Gol.gg, despite Graves being a familiar and strong pick for SofM in the Summer 2021 season, he only used this champion once. Meanwhile, SofM used Viego 4 times.
TheShy has previously disclosed his capability in playing tank champions. In the 2021 LPL season, he participated in 11 matches with Gnar (achieving a 63.6% win rate) and also had 2 games with Tahm Kench (with a win rate of 50%). Additionally, he demonstrated proficiency with other tank champions such as Sion and Cho'Gath. Conversely, Bin's statistics predominantly revolve around damage-heavy champions, with Gnar being the most effectively utilized tank in his repertoire.
SofM's control prowess will aid TheShy in being more proactive during the laning phase
It's a fact: TheShy always favors pressuring opponents during the laning phase, exploiting their vulnerabilities to engage in advantageous trades, and even securing solo kills. Previously, his lane partner in the top lane, after Ning's departure, was XUN. However, XUN lacks the map control capabilities of SofM, which allows TheShy to confidently engage in aggressive plays and trades.
Therefore, teaming up with SofM will undoubtedly not only maintain TheShy's capabilities but also potentially assist the 2018 Worlds champion in regaining form and adopting his familiar playstyle. SofM is known for his control-oriented play, and even in a showmatch, the 'Vietnamese Jungle God' stands out as the player with the most vision control on both teams.
TheShy is one of the two most experienced veterans at Worlds within the WBG lineup
In every lineup aspiring to participate and claim titles in major tournaments, experienced and resilient players are essential. Previously, WBG (formerly known as SN) had SwordArt, and they reached the finals of Worlds 2020. However, following his departure, as evident to all, the 'LPL Lions' experienced a decline and returned empty-handed.
Now, with SwordArt's return and TheShy, a World Champion, back in WBG's lineup, the team inherently possesses '2 gods' in the eyes of LPL fans. With TheShy's resilience and experience in major tournaments, along with SwordArt's talent, as well as SofM, Huanfeng, and Angel, WBG can fully aspire to significant titles in the upcoming 2022 season, provided this player regains form.
