Dplus KIA’s journey through the League of Legends esports Championship Korea (LCK) has been a blend of highs and lows, especially following the departure of key player Kim “Canyon” Geon-bu to Gen.G. This pivotal change forced the team to restructure, bringing both joy and concern.
Current Standing in LCK
Dplus KIA currently holds the seventh position with two wins and four losses. The team’s initial losses to KT Rolster and Gen.G weren’t alarming, as they showed potential even in defeat. However, recent setbacks against Kwangdong Freecs and Hanwha Life Esports have raised concerns.
The Rise of the Jungle-Mid Duo
The silver lining for Dplus KIA lies in its jungle-mid duo. Despite the departure of an icon like Canyon, the team has managed to find strength internally, reflecting the success of their training processes.
— LCK (@LCK) January 27, 2024
ShowMaker’s Comeback and Lucid’s Emergence
- Heo “ShowMaker” Su: The LCK idol, known for his versatility and legacy, has bounced back from a slump, showing improved gameplay and solid lane phases.
- Choi “Lucid” Yong-hyeok: The 19-year-old jungler from Dplus KIA’s academy has stepped up, showcasing his skills and adapting to the elite league.
ShowMaker and Lucid’s Synergy
Their synergy is crucial, with Lucid creating space for ShowMaker to excel. This partnership has shifted the team’s dynamics, focusing more on team fights and objective control.
The Crucial Role of Kellin
Kim “Kellin” Hyeong-gyu’s performance remains a critical factor. While his kill participation is high, his influence in lane phases and team fights is yet to reach its peak. The team’s shotcalling, particularly in the mid-game, is an area needing improvement.
WE'RE GOING TO GAME 3 FOR SATURDAY⚔️SHOWDOWN!
Listen in as GEN defend their exposed Nexus and take game 2! #LCK pic.twitter.com/JZ0ziDrmIS— LCK (@LCK) January 27, 2024
Future Directions
Dplus KIA faces the challenge of enhancing their gameplay, either by strengthening the bot lane or improving map rotations. The team’s performance hinges on the balance between individual skills and cohesive team strategy.
The Challenging Reboot of Dplus KIA
Dplus KIA’s reentry into the LCK is marked by both challenges and potential. The team must continue to refine their strategies and player synergies to rise in the ranks of the LCK.