I think it has a bit to do with a, how to say, league version of "class consciousness". That is to say, the honoring system's runs somewhat parallel with the mindset of different skill groups within the game.
Pre-30, people are still new to the game and don't quite know what the standard is or what one should expect from one's team. This being the case, honors were frequent as the only real basis was performing exceptionally well, or simply having a fun chat with teammates (or the enemy team) during game. Simply saying "glhf" in some manner warranted an honorable opponent. Once people hit 30, their mentality shifts based on where they are, but the general observation is the emphasis placed on focusing on the game rather than making idle chat. Full conversations turn into "gj" or "ty".
For those in lower elo (aka "Elo Hell"), the the stereotypical standard is a poorly performing team; the "troll, d/c's, and feeders" if you will. Here, just like Pre-30 play, you can earn honors simply by performing exceptionally well. Though, it's not less because they felt you deserved the honor for being a good "leader" or "teammate" and more because they're grateful for being carried after being so used to losing.
Once you reach higher elo, it's rare to receive an honor for either of the above reasons, as doing well is now the expectation. People tend to adopt the mentality that you shouldn't get a pat on the back for doing what you were supposed to do anyway. And, as stated before, there's the transition to pings, key in-game info, and simple "gj"s as opposed to stopping to chat every 5 seconds. Once you're up here, you basically have to be 25-0, Good Guy Faker Senpai in order to get at least one honor and even then it's rare.
This isn't for everyone of course, as there are many exceptions to this. But, I'd consider this the majority.
