Introduction: The S15 season has wrapped up completely, and the majority of players have probably been paying attention to the recent offseason. The LCK region's overall popularity and enthusiasm have been quite strong in recent years. Although some players have stepped away from the pro stage, they still care deeply about the scene. For instance, jungler Peanut, who took a break this season, is expected to join the LPL after finishing his military duty. Meanwhile, the well-known AD player Deft was recently revealed by a former teammate to be considering a comeback. Barring any surprises, he will likely return to professional play after his discharge, continuing his career as a player. As one of the strongest ADs in LPL history, he will probably rejoin the LPL.

Another legendary veteran in the LPL is rumored to be making a comeback

Most players are likely familiar with the former EDG team, regarded as the national team of the LPL region. Back in the day, their performance and popularity were both outstanding. AD player Deft was a favorite Korean import for many fans. Possibly due to his age and his dream of winning a World Championship, Deft amicably parted ways with EDG and returned to the LCK region. This decision led him to win the LCK championship and also claim the S12 World Championship title with DRX, fulfilling his dream of lifting the trophy. Since he couldn't compete for Korea’s honor earlier, he had to complete his mandatory military service like everyone else.

Deft has mostly faded from players’ attention lately, with many believing he won’t return to professional League of Legends. However, his close friend Pyosik publicly revealed during a livestream that Deft is likely to resume competing as an active player after his military discharge. At a 2022 DRX player meet-up, Pyosik expressed his belief that Deft will come back. Industry insiders in the LPL have also leaked information from multiple reliable sources confirming that Deft has always wanted to return to the professional scene. This news quickly sparked widespread discussion among fans, especially since the LCK currently has no shortage of AD players. If Deft wants a strong lineup, it’s highly probable he will come back to the LPL.

Many EDG fans have shared their thoughts, expressing how much they miss Kim "Deft" Hyuk-kyu. It seems many veteran LCK players were forced to retire not because of age or lack of desire, but due to mandatory military service. Even Faker has publicly stated that age has little impact on pro players and that older players often have more experience, enabling better decisions in-game. This has led to heated debates among LPL fans: if even Deft wants to return to the pro stage, why does Uzi keep getting dragged into hype and controversy?

Honestly, whether Doggo returns is entirely up to him, and his comeback might bring more drawbacks than benefits. He would have to undergo intense training without earning money from streaming, and if he doesn’t achieve good results, he would face online criticism. Even if he performs well but fails to win Worlds, critics would still mock him. It might be better for him to stay on break and only return when there’s buzz, with official support still available. Overall, a player’s decision to return depends on personal choice, and fans shouldn’t pressure them. If they want to play, they can continue; if not, nothing can force them.

Farewell thoughts

It’s surprising that Deft, still serving his military duty, has the desire to come back, and that this desire has persisted. This likely shows his genuine love for the professional stage. Many LCK players don’t have family commitments; it seems they rarely marry while still competing professionally, often starting their personal lives only after retirement. Even top-tier players like Faker have never been publicly linked to a girlfriend, which puzzles many fans. Could it be that Faker simply isn’t interested? After all, he’s already 30.

What do you all think about this situation?