Cloud9 replaces their head coach in the middle of the LCS Spring Split.
In an unlikely turn of events right before their LCS Spring Split match against Counter Logic Gaming over the weekend, Cloud9 announced that it has since released Nick “LS” De Cesare from his head coach position and promoting Max Waldo to the role instead. While many on social media thought it was a joke at first, LS has since come out on Twitter to corroborate the official statement released from C9.
Having joined the squad in December 2021 during the off-season, it does seem a bit odd to release him, having been with the team for a little over three months. LS was responsible for C9's respectable third/fourth-place finish at the LCS Lock-In 2022.
Many did not see this coming as C9 has had a decent Spring Split so far, sharing third place with 100 Thieves with a 4-2 score. Before LS' release, C9 were 3-1 and shared the top spot with 100T as well. He will be replaced by Max Waldo, who has been part of C9's backroom staff since the tail-end of 2020.
While it remains to be seen how C9 fares after this change of coaching, the team itself has performed exemplary so far. The team has only dropped two games so far, one against CLG just hours after LS left and the other against back-to-back Lock-In winners, Team Liquid. Min-cheol "Berserker" Kim has been one of the stand-out performers for the LCS team, claiming two MVP awards for himself.
With many more games to go in the LCS before we determine who makes it to the Mid-Season Showdown, it's worth noting that C9 are the current reigning Spring Split champions. Whether or not they can defend their crown is another thing entirely.
Another point worth talking about is how big the drama has gotten. Less than an hour after C9 released a statement regarding the drama, a congressman from Portugal chimed in with his data to showcase just how long LS had been with the LCS squad before his release.
While many rumours are swirling as to the exact reason why LS was released, we can only wish him the very best in his future endeavours.
