The "Weakest" Jungler in LPL Stages a Remarkable Comeback

Since top domestic coach Tabe left AL for JDG, many LPL viewers have been keenly watching JDG's matches, with some even declaring them the league's premier all-Chinese team due to their past dominance over BLG. However, as the first split progressed, observers noted JDG's form was highly inconsistent. At their best, they crushed opponents effortlessly, but during slumps, they struggled against teams like TES and WBG.

Due to JDG's underwhelming results in the first split, many fans blamed jungler Junjia, even calling for his replacement. They argued he hindered the team's overall performance, suggesting that with a jungler like Tian, JDG could achieve more. Despite Junjia earning MVP honors in a BO5 against TES, doubts about his ability persisted. Many viewed him as the team's weak link, believing JDG's championship hopes were dim as long as he remained.

Given the widespread criticism of JDG's jungler Junjia, many fans predicted JDG would be crushed by AL, whose jungler Tarzan is currently considered the LPL's best. However, after JDG's BO5 victory over AL, numerous LPL viewers apologized to Junjia, acknowledging they had underestimated him. Throughout the series, Junjia outperformed Tarzan in both jungle control and teamfight execution. Some fans even remarked that if Junjia maintains this form and potential, JDG could realistically lead the LPL to an all-Chinese world championship.

While Junjia's comeback delighted many LPL fans, others attributed AL's loss primarily to Tarzan's poor form. During the BO5, Tarzan repeatedly mimicked Kanavi by invading the enemy's F6, forcing AL into unfavorable team fights. His gameplay also declined noticeably; whether playing Sylas or Wukong, his performance fell far short of his usual standard.

Tabe's Sincere Post-Match Remarks Move Players to Tears

After JDG defeated the widely recognized top team AL, coach Tabe gave a post-match interview. He praised AL's overall performance highly, calling them the toughest opponent JDG had faced in the playoffs. Tabe also encouraged AL, stating their skill should make a comeback from the losers' bracket manageable (AL will face the winner of IG vs. NIP, a matchup they should handle comfortably). Finally, Tabe offered a sincere apology to JDG's fans and players.

Tabe explained that the LPL's tight schedule this season led him to experiment with unconventional drafts during the regular split to accelerate team synergy. This resulted in JDG's inconsistent record and subjected the players to significant external criticism and pressure. As Tabe spoke, jungler Junjia was seen wiping away tears nearby. Junjia likely endured the most pressure on the team: top laner Xiaoxu's salary is relatively low, bot laner GALA is an LPL star, while Junjia has often been mockingly called a "freebie" accompanying mid laner Hongq, making him the primary target for blame whenever JDG loses.