LoL – Danny wins 2021 LCS Rookie of the Year Award

Following an impressive debut campaign in the LCS, Evil Geniuses AD Carry Kyle “Danny” Sakamaki has been handed the Rookie of the Year award. The 17-year-old has long been tipped as a star of the future, with the American having made his name in the EG Prodigies lineup.

The former Zenith Esports pro has been one the standout performers in the bottom lane, having made light work of the switch from the amateur scene. The teenager only joined Evil Geniuses main roster ahead of the 2021 Summer Split, with the team having struggled to find top form during the previous season, when Matthew “Deftly” Chen was in their starting lineup. With the help of Danny, EG went from sixth position to one of the best teams in the league.

Why danny was handed the award

Posting on Twitter, the official LCS page stated: “Congratulations to @EG_Danny of @EvilGeniuses on winning the 2021 #LCS Rookie of the Year Award! #EGWIN” Danny recorded 111 kills during his nine weeks of competition, the most in the entire league. Meanwhile, the youngster finished with the third-highest average damage to champions per minutes when compared to other LCS ADCs. Danny has earned rave reviews from fellow pros and analysts, with his consistency being that of an experienced veteran.

EG ultimately ended the regular season in a tie for 1st, alongside both TSM and 100 Thieves. Their 18-9 record was a significant improvement from their showing in the Spring, with mid laner Jiizuke having been another to step up to the plate. EG recorded wins over the likes of Cloud9, TSM and 100 Thieves during their campaign.

When will we see Danny in action next?

Korean duo “Impact” and “IgNar” have been consistently good for EG too, which is part of the reason as to why many are backing the team to go well at the LCS Championship. Danny could well make his first appearance at the event, with Evil Geniuses getting their campaign underway against 100 Thieves on August 14.

Last time EG had to play against 100 Thieves they won the match after 37 minutes. It will be really interesting to see how Danny will perform in his next matches and if he will be able to keep up his strong performance.