The upcoming transition to Riot Games’ new unified Americas League is causing waves in the League of Legends community. Recent reports suggest that NRG and Immortals will not be part of the bold new competition.
This news, first shared by Travis Gafford on September 10, 2024, highlights significant shifts in the North American esports landscape. Here’s a comprehensive look at the latest updates, including which teams are expected to make the cut and what this means for the future of LCS teams.
Teams Excluded from the Americas League
According to the latest reports, Immortals and NRG are the two North American organizations set to be excluded from Riot’s new league.
- Immortals: The organization’s exclusion is less surprising given its underwhelming performance since its return to the LCS in 2019. Immortals has struggled to make a significant impact, making its exclusion from the new league somewhat expected.
- NRG: The news about NRG is more shocking. Despite acquiring the Counter Logic Gaming (CLG) division and its LCS slot in 2023, NRG is reportedly not making the transition to the new league. This decision is unexpected, especially considering NRG’s strong performance and its championship-winning roster.
Expected Participants
While NRG and Immortals are out, the following teams are anticipated to join the Americas League:
- Cloud9
- Dignitas
- Shopify Rebellion
- Team Liquid (2024 World Championship representatives)
- 100 Thieves
- FlyQuest (recent NA champions)
NRG’s Short-Lived Stint
NRG’s rapid departure from the League scene is causing a stir among fans and analysts. Many are expressing surprise and disappointment that:
- NRG invested in CLG’s slot, built a strong roster, and achieved significant results at Worlds in 2023, only to exit the league within 18 months.
- Fans are reacting with frustration, criticizing NRG for what they perceive as a lack of commitment and impact.
Dignitas and Financial Considerations
On the other hand, Dignitas is set to retain its spot in the new league. The decision makes sense given:
- Ownership: Dignitas is owned by Harris Blitzer Sports, a major investment group with stakes in various sports teams, including the Philadelphia 76ers and the New Jersey Devils.
- Financial Stability: The ownership’s financial backing likely played a role in securing Dignitas’s position in the Americas League.
Future Uncertainty
Despite these developments, nothing is finalized yet:
- Potential Sales and Restructures: Teams like 100 Thieves are still considering their options, which could lead to further changes before the official announcement.
- League Announcements: Riot Games has yet to formally confirm the 2025 participants, leaving room for potential adjustments.
Final Toughts
The exclusion of NRG and Immortals from Riot Games’ new Americas League marks a significant shift in the LCS landscape. With strong teams like Cloud9, FlyQuest, and Team Liquid expected to transition, the league’s new structure promises exciting changes.
Keep an eye on future announcements for final confirmations and potential adjustments in team placements.
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