TL;DR
- Clozer’s debut sparked T1’s five-game winning streak despite initial fan skepticism
- The 17-year-old mid laner enabled new top-jungle focused strategies while maintaining bot lane stability
- Team flexibility increased dramatically with multiple viable win conditions across all lanes
- Faker remains crucial for playoff experience and strategic depth in high-pressure situations
- Upcoming matches against DAMWON and DRX will test T1’s new strategic approach
When T1 announced Lee “Clozer” Ju-hyeon would replace legendary mid laner Faker in their starting lineup, the League of Legends community erupted with mixed reactions. Supporters expressed concern about benching the most decorated player in esports history, particularly during a critical phase of the 2020 LCK Summer Split. However, the organization’s bold decision quickly demonstrated strategic merit as the team began delivering dominant performances.
The timing of this roster change proved crucial—T1 implemented Clozer during week 7 following several inconsistent showings that threatened their playoff positioning. His immediate impact revitalized the squad’s competitive momentum, establishing an undefeated streak that positioned them as serious championship contenders.
Clozer’s journey to the LCK stage represents a carefully managed talent development pipeline. Having joined T1’s organization in May 2019, the young mid laner spent over a year developing within the team’s infrastructure before his professional debut. At just 17 years old, he entered the league as one of its youngest competitors, bringing fresh energy and mechanical prowess to the mid lane.
His age presents both advantages and challenges—while offering exceptional reaction times and adaptability, he lacks the high-pressure tournament experience that defines Faker’s legacy. This calculated risk by T1’s coaching staff demonstrates their confidence in nurturing young talent while maintaining competitive performance.
T1’s current five-match victory run showcases their renewed dominance, with each win coming in convincing 2-0 fashion against respectable opponents. Victories over established teams like KT Rolster and Afreeca Freecs demonstrated strategic depth beyond mere individual skill advantages.
2020.08.09 MVP of the Day by T1
T1이 선정한 오늘의 MVP는?
꼰…크흠 선배들 사이에서 존재감을 뽐내고 있는 “Clozer” 이주현 선수입니다!MVP of the Day awarded by T1 tonight goes to Clozer!#T1WIN
#T1Fighting
pic.twitter.com/fobNuWLrvg— T1 LoL (@T1LoL)
August 9, 2020
The remaining regular season schedule presents significant tests against DAMWON Gaming and DRX—two teams currently positioned at the top of the LCK standings. These matches will determine whether T1’s resurgence represents temporary momentum or sustainable strategic evolution.
Why is T1 doing so well after replacing Faker with Clozer?
Replacing an icon like Faker creates immense pressure, yet Clozer has exceeded expectations through his adaptable playstyle. Rather than attempting to replicate Faker’s legendary carry potential, Clozer facilitates victory through enabling teammates across multiple lanes—a fundamental shift in T1’s strategic identity.
His champion pool emphasizes utility and early-game pressure, with Zoe serving as his signature pick alongside reliable selections like Syndra and Karma. This approach allows T1 to diversify their win conditions beyond traditional mid-centric strategies.
The most significant transformation occurred in jungle coordination. Moon “Cuzz” Woo-chan has flourished with Clozer’s supportive style, demonstrating expanded champion versatility and map-wide influence. Combined with top laner Kim “Canna” Chang-dong’s elevated performance, T1 now confidently executes top-side focused game plans that previously seemed inconsistent.
Bot lane stability reached exceptional levels, with Park “Teddy” Jin-seong achieving remarkable consistency—averaging just one death across ten consecutive games. This reliability recalls his peak performance days with Jin Air Green Wings, providing T1 with a reliable late-game insurance policy.
Identifying a single factor behind T1’s improvement oversimplifies their strategic transformation. The team now exhibits unprecedented flexibility, capable of generating advantages through any lane while adapting to opponent strategies dynamically.
Faker’s continued presence provides invaluable mentorship and strategic depth. His extensive playoff experience remains crucial for high-stakes matches, potentially leading to strategic rotations during the postseason when every decision carries championship implications.
This roster evolution reflects T1’s commitment to developing future stars while maintaining championship competitiveness. For teams looking to optimize their strategic approach, our Class Guide explores similar strategic diversification principles applicable across competitive gaming contexts.
The remaining regular season matches against DAMWON Gaming and DRX will ultimately validate whether this new approach can sustain against elite competition.
Action Checklist
- Analyze team composition flexibility across multiple lanes
- Evaluate individual player performance metrics within new strategic context
- Study champion pool adaptations and their strategic implications
- Compare pre-and-post roster change statistical trends
- Develop contingency plans for strategic player rotations in critical matches
No reproduction without permission：Game Guides Online » T1 is dominating the LCK after replacing Faker with Clozer Analyzing T1's strategic evolution and roster dynamics after Faker's temporary benching for rising star Clozer