Reports suggest that Evil Geniuses (EG) are gearing up to participate in the 2024 VCT season, albeit with a revamped lineup rather than their triumphant championship squad.
Throughout 2023, EG found themselves embroiled in numerous controversies. These ranged from the unexpected dissolution of their expansive 15-player CS lineup to allegations surrounding the treatment of a prominent LCS talent. Additionally, their acclaimed VALORANT championship squad appeared to be ensnared in contractual complications.
The Uncertainty Surrounding EG’s VCT Participation and Roster Modifications
Upon EG’s departure from the LCS, rumors swirled about their potential exit from the esports scene altogether. This speculation intensified following the relinquishment of their BLAST Premier slot post their CS2 departure, casting doubts over the fate of their decorated VALORANT squad.
LCS 2024 Update – John Needham pic.twitter.com/CmnMmTfgxN
— LCS (@LCSOfficial) November 20, 2023
However, insights from VALORANT specialist Lembo suggest otherwise. Lembo, in a translated statement, indicated: “Evil Geniuses, a VCT Americas affiliate, is set to compete in the 2024 league.”
LEAK: Evil Geniuses, equipo partner de VCT Américas, continuará en la liga en 2024.
Había un rumor de que M80 ocuparía su plaza pero según mi info os puedo confirmar que EG continuará en esports en 2024 con su equipo de VCT. Eso sí, no será con los mismos jugadores 🧐 pic.twitter.com/3n4UvqhwQW
— Lembo (@Lembo006) December 19, 2023
Lembo elaborates further, dispelling some circulating rumors: “While there were whispers about M80 stepping in, my sources affirm EG’s commitment to the 2024 VCT season. Nonetheless, anticipate shifts in player dynamics.” Post their championship triumph, EG’s players found themselves contractually bound.
A Crossroads for EG’s Players and Potential Moves
The current atmosphere hints at EG players exploring avenues beyond their contractual constraints, even if it materializes late into the off-season. Notably, standout talents like Ethan “Ethan” Arnold and Max “Demon1” Mazanov have surfaced in discussions linking them to NRG’s emerging powerhouse lineup. Meanwhile, the strategic mind behind EG’s gameplay, Kelden “Boostio” Pupello, has been associated with a potential move to 100Thieves. The EG players were locked into their contracts after their win.
Latest for Substack: Evil Geniuses Valorant players find themselves in “contract jail” after the org turns down a number of bids for the players ahead of January’s roster lock.https://t.co/HLKXdRr9Xw pic.twitter.com/0YxnHscCOA
— Richard Lewis (@RLewisReports) September 23, 2023
Conversely, individuals such as Corbin “C0M” Lee and Alexander “jawgemo” Mor find themselves without definitive off-season team affiliations. The community remains in anticipation, speculating on the future leadership of the EG VALORANT squad, particularly concerning their esteemed coach, Christine “Potter” Chi.
Image Source: @EvilGeniuses | Twitter