TL;DR
- Maple and Bo bring proven LPL talent that could revitalize struggling LCS rosters
- TSM represents the most logical destination given their Eastern market expansion strategy
- Successful integration requires addressing language barriers and cultural adaptation challenges
- Lower-tier teams offer immediate starting opportunities with less competitive pressure
- The Summer Split timing creates urgency for teams needing mid-season roster upgrades

North American League of Legends faces potential roster shakeups as two established LPL professionals contemplate transcontinental moves. Huang “Maple” Yi-tang and Zhou “Bo” Yang-Bo represent significant upgrade opportunities for organizations struggling to find competitive footing.
The speculation gained credibility through streaming commentary from veteran Chinese competitor Kim “Doinb” Tae-sang, who indicated both the former FPX jungler and Anyone’s Legend mid laner are evaluating LCS opportunities. Each brings distinctive strengths that could address specific weaknesses plaguing bottom-tier North American squads.
Strategic roster decisions become increasingly critical as teams prepare for the Summer Split, where performance improvements can determine playoff eligibility and championship aspirations.
Strategic Team Analysis: Maple and Bo’s Potential Impact
Multiple LCS organizations eliminated from spring playoffs face critical roster decisions that could benefit from importing established international talent. The most compelling destination remains TSM, whose dramatic competitive decline saw them finish ninth among ten teams highlights their urgent need for proven performers.
TSM’s previous experiment with Chinese and Taiwanese talent produced disappointing results, yet their strategic commitment to expanding Eastern market presence creates natural alignment with Maple’s acquisition. Replacing underperforming mid laner Zhu “Keaiduo” Xiong with Maple’s consistent lane dominance and teamfighting prowess could provide immediate competitive uplift.
[Rumour] According to Doinb's stream, he has mentioned Maple and (that person) will come to NA together, and this rumour is almost confirmed. pic.twitter.com/j4fBNS84nq
— Rita (@cutebchu) April 11, 2022
Bo presents an intriguing jungle option, though displacing current jungler Mingyi “Spica” Lu would represent surprising organizational direction given his established role. Alternative destinations like Immortals Progressive and Dignitas QNTMPAY offer potentially smoother integration paths with less immediate performance pressure.
Teams currently positioned outside championship contention face fewer barriers to integrating international talent, allowing focused development without playoff race distractions. This environment could prove ideal for players adjusting to new competitive regions and language environments.
Social media platforms including Reddit amplified the speculation following Doinb’s comments, with community analysis generally converging on similar team fits. The timing aligns with traditional mid-season evaluation periods where underperforming organizations reassess their competitive trajectories.
Successful international transitions require addressing multiple dimensions beyond raw mechanical skill. Language barriers represent the most immediate challenge, particularly for shotcalling and coordinated play. Teams must implement structured communication systems and potentially leverage bilingual coaching staff to facilitate smoother adaptation.
Cultural adjustment extends beyond communication to practice regimens, dietary habits, and social integration—factors that significantly impact player performance and longevity in new regions. Organizations considering these acquisitions should develop comprehensive support infrastructure addressing these non-game elements.
The broader LCS ecosystem benefits from increased international talent infusion, raising competitive standards and providing learning opportunities for domestic players. However, sustainable success requires balancing import acquisitions with native talent development to avoid dependency on transient international professionals.
Action Checklist
- Analyze team-specific roster gaps where Maple’s mid lane consistency or Bo’s aggressive jungling could provide maximum value
- Evaluate communication infrastructure and bilingual support capabilities
- Assess cultural integration programs and player support systems
- Monitor official LCS roster announcement timelines for confirmation
No reproduction without permission:Game Guides Online » If Maple and Bo head to the LCS, which teams will they join? Analyzing potential LCS destinations for Maple and Bo with strategic team fit assessment
