Team Heretics benches Perkz following a disappointing LEC Winter Split

In a shocking turn of events, Luka “Perkz” Perković has been benched by Team Heretics following a subpar Winter Split run. Team Heretics failed to meet the sky-high expectations that were posed on them, ending their Winter Split campaign in 7th place.

The basis for the expectations largely hinged on the reunification of the former G2 Esports core of “Perkz”, “Jankos”, and “Wunder”. Instead, Team Heretics collapsed spectacularly, showcasing a surprising lack of stability despite having fielded so many veterans of the LEC.

The report was first broken by reporter Brieuc Seeger.

The Dismal Collapse of Team Heretics

The roster was newly formed, with only Victor “Flakked” Tortosa and Marcin “Jankos” Jankowski staying on from the 2023 lineup. To the roster, Martin “Wunder” Nordahl Hansen, Norman “Kaiser” Kaiser, and “Perkz” was added in time for the 2024 season.

Despite a stacked lineup (on paper), Team Heretics failed to deliver on their price tag, and the subsequent benching of “Kaiser” came as little surprise for many. Adrian "Trmbi" Trybus was called on after split-long break.

However, “Perkz” was a large culprit as well for many keen observers, noting that the LEC veteran was not playing to his standards, and was in fact losing lanes to many younger, less experienced players. For a player once touted as the best mid laner in EU, and certainly one of the most consistent, it came as a shock to see the dip in level that even on a failing Team Vitality, was not as apparent.

Reportedly however, the decision to bench Perkz came from the team manager, rather than the Head Coach. The decision was reportedly made over a dispute between Perkz and the manager.

Called up to the major leagues

In his place, Polish mid laner Artur “Zwyroo” Trojan will be called up from the ERLs to compete in Perkz’s place. Zywroo was playing for Los Heretics, Team Heretic’s Academy roster, prior to his call-up.

It will be no small feat to live up to the giant’s name he will be replacing, however, fresh blood injected into the Heretic’s roster may just be what they need to make the Spring season theirs.

Credit: Michal Konkol/Riot Games

Read More:

Strafe's Match of the Week: Cloud9 rematches Flyquest LCS Spring 2024

LCK resorts to pre-recorded games for Week 6 after returning DDoS attacks