Huang “Maple” Yi-Tang, Kang “TheShy” Seung-lok, and Yuan “Cryin” Cheng-Wei have all parted with their former teams and are currently free agents exploring their options for 2022. We’re talking about three exceptional players here, individuals who would no doubt serve as a boon to any team they might sign for. 

And, well, that is precisely why we can’t wait to see where they’ll end up next! Out of the three, Maple is arguably the best performer at this current time; TheShy has regressed a fair bit since his golden days and Cryin, while undoubtedly talented, has shown a myriad of weaknesses that — at the highest of levels — can be easily exploited by the competition in the 2022 season. 

Be that as it may, both TheShy and Cryin have accomplished great things both in the LPL and on the international stage: the former has won Worlds, whereas the latter is the defending Mid-Season Invitational champion so it”ll be exciting to see where the free agents go for the 2022 season. They might not be perfect but are nonetheless worthy of the history books and our undivided attention.

Maple, however, is arguably the most fascinating of the newly free agents. He’s a seasoned veteran with years of experience behind his belt. And, as such, you’d think that his play would regress — at least ever so slightly. But for some reason, Maple just keeps getting better and better. Mechanics regress, motivation wanes, and the drive to compete recedes. Well, for most, at least. Maple seems to have some kind of deal with Father Time, and it has bore fruit in the most inspiring of ways.

He’s an absolute legend of the game and has more LMS titles and PCS titles than he knows what to do with. Internationally, he’s always been very competitive but doesn’t have much to show for it, unfortunately. That, however, could very well change if he can find a team worthy of his talents and leadership qualities. Whether that’s in the LPL, PCS, LCK, or even LCS still remains to be seen, but we’re pretty sure he has no shortage of options, especially after wrecking house at this year’s MSI and Worlds.

A similar thing can be said for the fresh free agents, TheShy and Cryin as well, but their options for 2022 might not be as diverse and alluring — although that’s just an assumption and it might be completely off the mark. It’s also worth noting that most top-tier teams have already finalized their rosters so it’s not like these three individuals will have a litany of options to choose from. At this point in time, Maple, TheShy, and Cryin might not get to be as picky as they would be otherwise, with the 2022 season approaching.

In any case, we’ll find out soon enough.