NA LCS Week 3 Preview

Breaking Away

Week 3 will start to define where teams will stand towards the end of the split. Currently, a three way tie for second between C9, LMQ and CLG means that there is no margin for error within the top four. CLG and C9 are picking themselves up after a shaky start while LMQ is struggling to follow up on their perfect superweek. Going 2-0 this week will be crucial if teams want to stay in the top three.

Dignitas Puts It Together

For years Dignitas has struggled to do anything better than an average performance. Now, with solid improvements to their solo lanes and a renewed focus on macro strategy, the team has snagged themselves a first place spot with a record of 5-2. Shiphtur has had one of the most impressive performances on the team and is arguably one of, if not the best mid laner in North America at the moment. First off, Dignitas will go head to head with Counter Logic Gaming. After that, they are almost guaranteed a win versus the ailing Evil Geniuses.

Down A Man

For the second week in a row, Complexity will be playing with a substitute. Last week, Pr0lly had to miss the LCS for unspecified reasons. Now, an influential figure in the team’s dynamic will return to Israel to renew his visa. As complexity trails along in a tie for last place, adding a win to their 1-5 record does not seem feasible in week three. It’s unknown who the jungle replacement will be. Regardless, it’s going to be another tough week for complexity.

Toughest Week Yet for CLG

CLG looked like they were starting to gel with Seraph in the top lane during week 2, but this will be the ultimate test.First off, they will face off against first place Dignitas in a battle of macro strategy. These lanes will be incredibly fun to watch - lane by lane this matchup is pretty much even. Following Dignitas, CLG will face the Kings of North America, Cloud 9 as they move back up to the standard we’ve seen in splits prior.

Was it Beginners Luck?

Following a perfect super week, LMQ promptly lost both of their matches in week 2 versus CLoud 9 and Dignitas. It raises the question - will LMQ be able to be anything more than a fourth place team when the dust settles in a few weeks? This week they face off against a rebuilding TSM and a dilapidated complexity.

Image Credit: Riot Games