Stewie2k has reannounced himself to the Counter-Strike world, after two years out of the game. In the immediate aftermath of his IEM Dallas 2024 win standing in for G2, the Smoke Criminal had just two words: “I’m back.”
By the numbers, this wasn’t an exceptional performance across the entire tournament. But under the circumstances? This was proof that given time, he could absolutely be part of a Tier 1 team in the future. So if he really is back for good, this creates a big question. Who should sign Stewie2k after IEM Dallas 2024? We’ve put together a few teams and scenarios that we think could happen if Stewie wants to make a permanent return.
Credit: Viola Schuldner | © ESL. Image modified by Daniel Morris.
At IEM Dallas 2024, Stewie2k’s biggest issue was his raw aim. He generally had a solid gamesense, but he often seemed unprepared for the type of duels that came his way in officials. By joining Nouns, Stewie would be able to get plenty of reps in NA officials, which would be huge for helping bring his aim back up to par.
A move to Nouns would also reunite Stewie with RUSH, with whom he won the ELEAGUE Boston Major back in 2018. Importantly, joining Nouns would give Stewie time without too much pressure. He could work on the gaps that have opened in his game since his competitive hiatus, all while helping establish Nouns further in the NA scene. It would also see him coached by adreN once again, who led Stewie to an Intel Grand Slam back in 2019.
Credit: Helena Kristiansson | © ESL. Image modified by Daniel Morris.
If Stewie really wants to test himself, he’ll make a move to EU for his comeback. Realistically, he’ll need to start near the bottom of the ladder – it’s unlikely a top team will pick him up, despite the win in Dallas. With this in mind, where better than OG? Now, don’t get it twisted – the team results probably wouldn’t change much for OG. Their CS division have developed a reputation as serial losers in recent years, and we’re not sure Stewie2k could fix that.
But if Stewie were to look at the situation selfishly, a team like OG could be perfect for his comeback. OG generally plays against strong opposition, certainly tough enough for Stewie2k to test himself and improve quickly. If he could find some solid individual form, OG could prove a solid stepping stone to bigger and better things. We’re sure OG would love the name value of bringing Stewie onto the roster, too.
Credit: IEM on X. Image modified by Daniel Morris.
It would be crazy, but why not? If NiKo decides his future lies as an IGL in the wake of Dallas, then HooXi‘s days are numbered. If G2 decided to move on its IGL, as well as nexa for someone with more firepower, then Stewie could absolutely be of use to the team.
The only caveat here is that G2 want to win trophies, here and now. It’s ironic to say this after IEM Dallas 2024, but with Stewie on the team, that probably wouldn’t be the case, at least for a while. They’d need to have patience while he gets his level back, and we don’t know if they’d give him the time required.
Credit: ESLCS on X. Image modified by Daniel Morris.
We’re only half-joking about this one. M80 are making huge strides all the time, but if someone were to snap up one of their players, replacing them with Stewie2k wouldn’t be the worst move, especially if they want to retain their North American identity. It would feel like an initial step back, but it could prove to be a masterstroke in the long-term.
This move would come with the same caveats as the teams above. He’d need time to get back up to speed, although M80 would likely be more patient than other organizations.
Credit: IEM on X. Image modified by Daniel Morris.
This is never going to happen in a million years for an equal amount of reasons, but it’d be really funny, especially given Liquid‘s rumored makeover during the upcoming player break. Give us Liquid Stewie!
LOL
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