LNG fans have been anxiously awaiting news on whether Scout would make it to Worlds 2024, despite his ongoing legal battle with EDward Gaming, the team he helped win Worlds in 2021. Unfortunately, it’s now confirmed that Scout will be replaced.
Scout’s absence could be a significant setback for LNG, as he is one of the top mid laners in the LPL. His career took off after a rocky debut with T1, making him a crucial asset to the team.
The concerns began as soon as LNG qualified for Worlds, given the uncertainty surrounding Scout’s ability to travel to Europe due to his legal dispute with EDG. But why is EDG suing him?
Here’s a breakdown of the lawsuit and details on who will replace Scout for LNG’s Worlds 2024 campaign.
WHY IS EDG SUING SCOUT?
Scout was once meant to replace Faker at T1.
EDG’s lawsuit revolves around allegations that Scout agreed to join an LCK team while still under contract with EDG. This legal dispute, ongoing for more than two years, has escalated as Scout’s agency, SuperGent, counter-sued EDG, according to the organization’s general manager.
The GM also blamed SuperGent for not informing Scout or LNG about an active travel ban ahead of the finals, criticizing the agency’s actions. SuperGent, in turn, accused EDG of making the legal battle harder for Scout, publicly stating that he was banned from leaving China.
SuperGent further claimed that they informed both the LPL and LNG of the ban and that EDG has been uncooperative in resolving the issue. As of now, the unresolved legal battle has prevented Scout from traveling to Europe for Worlds 2024.
WHO IS REPLACING SCOUT ON LNG FOR WORLDS 2024?
Riot Games officially announced that JDG’s Yagao would step in as an emergency substitute for Scout.
“Riot Games has been informed that LNG’s Scout is temporarily unable to travel to Worlds 2024. Given these circumstances, LNG has been granted permission to field an emergency substitute,” Riot stated.
Normally, teams can only substitute players who are free agents or didn’t compete in the most recent split, but visa complications led to the approval of Yagao, one of the best mid laners globally. Should Scout be cleared to travel, LNG must give 72 hours’ notice before reinstating him for matches.
While this situation isn’t ideal, Yagao has consistently performed at the top level, rivaling other LPL stars like knight, Rookie, and Scout himself. Known for his versatility, Yagao has adapted well to the current AD-focused mid-lane meta, excelling on champions like Tristana, Zeri, Corki, and Lucian. Many fans were hoping for Rookie, but Yagao is arguably the best option given the circumstances.