Misfits vs MAD Lions

Finally, to close things out, we have our Match of the Week: MAD Lions vs. Misfits. One could argue that any time MAD step foot on stage, there's a reason to tune in. They're the "hottest" team in the LEC right now, and if their recent performances are any indication, that's not going to change any time soon. They're fearless, cohesive, meta-resilient, they have champion oceans, and are fighting as a well-oiled machine.

There's really nothing you can scorn criticize them for, and that's rare. Obviously, they're not a perfect team, and each and every one of their members has an off day from time to time. Furthermore, they're often too aggressive, and their willingness to engage and skirmish without any apparent reason doesn't always pan out that well. A couple of teams ranked below them not only went even but outperformed MAD Lions in the early game through sheer decision-making. Playing conservatively is, at times, a fairly good idea, especially if you find yourself in a late game-oriented team comp. MAD Lions, however, only has two speeds and they prefer maximum velocity.

They're fairly similar to G2 Esports in that regard, but they're far less experienced, so even if they find themselves in hot water they're not always capable of turning things around. Still, with just a single loss on the board, MAD Lions are obviously one of the best and most capable teams the LEC has to offer. They're so fun to watch and they have all the right tools to not only leave a mark in the grand scheme of things but also lock down a ticket for the World Championship and represent their region in China come October.

Misfits, on the other hand, are extremely hard to read right now. They had a couple of fantastic games but they were too few and far between. When they look good, their potential is quite evident; when that fails to be the case, however, there's no potential to speak of whatsoever. They just fall apart in every way, shape, and form. Their synergy is non-existent and their individual play leaves a lot to be desired as well. Perhaps the most confusing shade of Misfits is the one when they compete on even footing and then just implode out of the blue.

Regardless, they're one of the better teams in the LEC and are bound to reach the playoffs, should they fix a couple of their more obvious flaws. There's a ton of potential within their line-up (Razork, Febiven, and Kobbe certainly stand out) and if they double down on their strengths and (perhaps) bring in Denyk back as support, they should be able to make a solid run for the playoffs. In the end, however, it's impossible to bet against MAD Lions at this point in time. They've only lost once so far, and while their games are often far from clean/one-sided, they've earned our benefit of the doubt.

That said, Misfits Gaming are no slouch, and they're going to fight tooth and nail to get the win and upset the LEC status quo. Expect fireworks either way.