Gambit at All-Star 2014

Riot·3/21/2014, 1:15:30 AM·0 votes·1,141 views

Since the end of January, there’s only been one team consistently in the top 2 of the EU LCS - Gambit. They’ve been a fixture in the EU scene since 2011. Regardless of meta, regardless of travel from their homes in Russia, Gambit have proven that their presence among the best in the region is something that won’t change anytime soon. Here’s why the Gambit guys deserve to go to All-Stars.

Top: Darien

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Darien has really set himself apart from the pack this year. And it’s unclear at this point if that’s a good thing. His unconventional picks and builds have drawn international attention, along with a fair share of praise and scorn alike. He even drew a Warwick ban back in January. When it comes to reasons for All-Star inclusion, however, this has got to be Darien’s best: “Faker just got killed by an Aatrox. With Manamune.”

Jungle: Diamondprox

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Diamond is, without a doubt, one of the most skilled junglers to ever come out of the EU region. Just take a look at his performance at last year’s All-Stars. His matchup against InSec in the Skills Competition was definitely one of the highlights of the event. But his unfortunate skill order decision meant he went home with the silver. It’s not a mistake he’ll make twice. If Diamond goes to All-Stars this year, two things are guaranteed. First, he’s going to come even more prepared than last time. But second, and most importantly, he’s going to bring his A game to prove once and for all that he is the best jungler in the world.

Mid: Alex Ich

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Alex Ich is one of—if not the—strongest leaders in the EU LCS. Few team captains can stand next to him in terms of keeping his team strong and relevant. Alex has steered Gambit to multiple world titles. What makes Alex the ultimate choice here is that he’s managed all of the above on top of being one of the best mid laners Europe has ever seen. Alex is an innovative player who has always performed well. He was also at All-Stars last year. The accolades are too much to ignore.

AD Carry: Genja

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The hottest name right now in EU is that of Genja. Just a few days ago, at the IEM World Championships in Katowice, he was the MVP. In fact, there’s no better time than now to send Genja to Paris—the biggest reason should be obvious. Last year, despite being voted into All-Stars, he had to stay on the sidelines due to the rules limiting players all being from one team. He’s definitely earned a shot this year.

Support: Edward

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Edward is, to date, the only player to leave Gambit Gaming, but he’s also the only person to rejoin it. His warm reception back into Gambit (and Gambit’s subsequent improvement in play) is a testament to Edward’s effect on the team. He’s a solid player, and definitely one of the best supports in the region. That’s not to say that he doesn’t bring some risk along with him. Edward’s surprise picks – support Kennen and Alistair – have not exactly been high points for Gambit. But maybe that’s exactly what an All-Star team needs—a fearless player with a large toolbox that he can cater to fit any possible need the team might have. A support player with that kind of knowledge will definitely be an asset to any All-Star team.

Regardless of who you choose, there’s bound to be some excellent play come All-Star Paris 2014 in May. Voting begins on Sunday, March 30th. Be sure to check out lolesports.com as the date approaches, as we’ll be sure to post more info on the format and voting process. But most of all, vote to show your support for your favorite players and teams!