Former Worlds winner Nuguri reportedly returning to DWG KIA

A familiar face might be returning to DWG KIA for the next split, as top laner Jang “Nuguri” Ha-gwon is reportedly signing with the team for the upcoming 2022 LCK Summer Split. 

As per reports from Korizon Esports, the Korean top laner is set to return to the professional stage starting next split. He will be rejoining his former team in DWG KIA, playing with the likes of Kim “Canyon” Geon-bu and Heo “ShowMaker” Su once again.

Nuguri has been on a break from competitive League of Legends this split after playing under FunPlus Phoenix during the 2021 season. Before going to China, Nuguri played a big part in DWG KIA’s success in 2020 when he and the rest of the team won the Worlds trophy. If the rumors of his return are true, then he may be able to deliver a comeback in the scene that his fans have been hoping for.

What happened to Nuguri?

Nuguri’s time with FPX in China wasn’t as successful as many would have hoped for, despite placing second in both splits last season. These domestic results got FPX to the 2021 World Championship, where the team ultimately collapsed completely. Nuguri and the rest of FPX finished at the bottom of their group, resulting in an early exit. 

There are now some question marks surrounding Nuguri due to last split and his break from professional play. With that said, Nuguri was always known for his aggressive playstyle and ability to carry from the top lane. This is something DWG KIA has been needing this split so a return for Nuguri could make great sense. 

In a return, Nuguri would be replacing the likes of Noh “Burdol” Tae-yoon and Yoon “Hoya” Yong-ho, who have been splitting time in the top lane for DWG KIA this split. Burdol has been the go-to player for the top lane but hasn’t had quite the impact that a team of DWG KIA’s standards could have hoped for.

DWG KIA finished the 2022 LCK Spring Split in third place after being knocked out by Gen.G in a five-game thriller. Now, DWG KIA is missing out on the 2022 Mid-Season Invitational and will have a good amount of time to evaluate the split and potentially pick up Nuguri for good. 

Nuguri playing for DWG KIA next split isn’t official yet, but could be announced at any time before the next split starts.