Buzz
The outcome of MSI 2022 is likely to be determined by two teams from LCK and LPL.
Only about 2 weeks left, MSI 2022 will officially kick off. This tournament gathers almost all previous MSI champions. Moreover, this edition of MSI marks the return of VCS on the international stage after 2 seasons absent due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Unfortunately, VCS' powerhouse GAM Esports couldn't participate due to national duties at SEA Games 31. Saigon Buffalo steps in to replace GAM.
With illustrious names like Fnatic, G2 Esports, Team Liquid, Team SoloMid absent in previous MSI editions, and with LCK and LPL proving too strong, this stage becomes a platform for Eastern LoL teams to showcase their strength. Even at MSI 2021, PCS representative PSG Talon surprised everyone by reaching the top 4. The final was the 'Sino-Korean Clash' between Royal Never Give Up and DWG KIA.
Despite G2's notable return, once hailed as the hope of the entire Western LoL scene, MSI 2022 is expected to resemble last season's tournament in Iceland: a stage dominated by LPL and LCK.
G2 is no longer the G2 of the past
At MSI 2022, G2 has made a comeback and is showcasing exceptional form. However, it's evident that at this point, G2 will find it hard to replicate their past success from 3 years ago. For those who closely follow LEC and LCS, the era of G2 has passed. The 2019 roster of the 'Circus' may have been crushed 2-0 by SGB in the group stage, but they played better and better. Back then, Caps, Perkz, Jankos, and even Wunder, Mikyx were at their peak. They played in the style of 'a minute of brilliance, then suddenly off'. Each match of G2 back then was truly captivating.
But Jankos is now on the downhill of his career and it took him over 2 years to deliver a performance like he did in Spring 2022. Meanwhile, the current G2 lineup no longer features Wunder or Perkz. And in comparison, G2's bot lane is talented, plays well together, but still may struggle to match up with Gumayusi - Keria or GALA - Ming. Both in terms of skill and experience, especially considering this is Flakked and Targamas' first official international tournament.
LPL and LCK are even stronger and more perfect than before
Moreover, both LPL and LCK are currently too strong and can be seen as even more perfect versions compared to previous seasons. Looking at RNG, they have Bin stepping in for Xiaohu in the mid lane and bid farewell to the 'weak link' Cryin. At present, the 'heavenly executioners' of LPL can be seen as a near-perfect ensemble. There are always names ready to 'carry the team', even if it's just the Support like Ming.
Furthermore, RNG is the reigning MSI champion. And surely, winning another title, especially on the 'home turf' of their 'arch-rival' LCK, would be a meaningful championship. It not only helps RNG defend their MSI throne but also asserts the strength of the 'Royal Army' or the entire Chinese LoL scene against LCK.
As for T1 - the 'unrivaled' force in the current LoL scene, there's nothing else but the championship at MSI 2022. Faker has waited too long to participate in an international tournament and even longer to lay his hands on international titles - something that seemed all too familiar to him in his illustrious career.
At this year's MSI, T1 brings the youngest lineup to the tournament, only losing to SGB and ORDER Gaming (from the LCO region). And notably, alongside Faker, there's the strength of the youth. Players like Oner, Zeus, and Gumayusi - Keria are in terrifying form. With a full blend of youth, talent, and experience, T1 at present may even be more perfect than DK back in 2021. And it's highly possible that Faker will have another trophy to add to his collection. It's a well-deserved reward for the 'Demon King' after showcasing his 'the older, the spicier' spirit.
Conclusion
It's possible that at the upcoming MSI 2022, G2 will still surprise with their 'eccentric' playstyle, but it's highly likely that this is still the playground dominated by LPL - LCK. Not to mention, G2 also has a strong rivalry with SGB, and on an unexpected day, it's very possible that the 'Buffaloes' will also contribute to asserting the strength of Eastern LoL on the world stage.
