LNG Scout’s World Championship 2024 Participation and the EDG Lawsuit Explained

LNG fans have been anxiously awaiting the possibility of Scout competing in Worlds 2024, despite his ongoing legal dispute with EDward Gaming (EDG), the team with which he secured victory at Worlds 2021. However, recent reports suggest that he has already been replaced for the upcoming event.

Scout’s significance to LNG cannot be overstated, and losing him could be a significant setback for the team. Regarded as one of the top mid laners in the LPL, Scout has built his career following a rocky start with T1, widely considered one of the worst major league debuts in history.

As LNG qualified for Worlds 2024, concerns arose about Scout’s ability to travel to Europe due to the ongoing legal battle with EDG. But what led to the lawsuit against the player he once stood by during his Worlds win?

Why is EDG suing Scout?

LNG Scout is one of the LPL's best mid laners — Colin Young-Wolff/Riot Games

Scout was once poised to replace Faker on T1.

The legal action taken by EDward Gaming against Scout stems from allegations that he agreed to join an LCK team while still under contract with the Chinese organization. This dispute has persisted for more than two years, with Scout’s agency opting to counter the lawsuit, as noted by EDG’s general manager.

Scout’s agency, SuperGent, has been accused of failing to inform either the player or LNG about a travel ban that is said to have been in effect leading up to the finals. The general manager attributed much of the blame for this situation to the agency, stating, “The outrageous routines of this agency are really a mess.”

In response, SuperGent publicly criticized EDG, arguing that the lawsuit hampers Scout’s focus and confirming that he is barred from leaving the country.

The agency stated, “We have shared the information about the travel ban with the LPL and LNG, and both organizations have sought EDG’s cooperation, but EDG has continuously acted oblivious.”

While the specifics of this lawsuit are complex, the bottom line is that as long as Scout is involved in this legal matter, he is unable to travel. Unless EDG decides to relent and permit Scout to travel to Europe, he is currently unable to participate in Worlds 2024.

Who’s replacing Scout on LNG at Worlds 2024?

According to a report from China Gap, Yagao will be stepping in as the mid laner for LNG Esports at Worlds 2024. Despite the circumstances surrounding his arrival, Yagao has consistently been a top performer among mid laners globally for several years.

Yagao is likely to be replacing Scout on LNG — Colin Young-Wolff/Riot Games

Yagao is positioned to replace Scout on LNG.

Having long established himself in the league, Yagao remains at the pinnacle of his role as a mid laner. He stands in contention with other LPL superstars like knight, Rookie, and Scout, showcasing remarkable consistency and versatility in his champion pool, historically excelling as a control mage player.

Nonetheless, he has also adapted well to the current AD-focused mid lane meta, delivering impressive performances on champions such as Tristana, Zeri, Corki, and Lucian. Given the volatile situation, it’s challenging to find a more competent mid laner to fill this role, though many long-time LPL fans may be wishing Rookie had the opportunity instead.

Source