Cloud9 may have acquired a new top laner in Eric “Licorice” Ritchie, according to an ESPN report earlier today.
Formerly a part of Cloud9’s challenger roster, Licorice’s contract was bought out by North American Challenger Series team eUnited in December 2016. But this deal carried the stipulation that if eUnited failed to make the NA LCS, Cloud9 would be the first team allowed to buy out Licorice’s contract, according to ESPN.
Despite two close promotion tournament attempts, eUnited failed to make the NA LCS, or become a permanent partner of the upcoming franchised league. Thus, per the NA LCS rules, eUnited would need to release its players’ contracts by Nov. 17.
In lieu of Licorice’s arrival, Cloud9’s current top laner Jung “Impact” Eon-yeong will be free to entertain offers from other teams. Additionally, no word has been given on the future plans of Cloud9’s backup top laner, Jeon “Ray” Ji-won.
Over the 2017 competitive season, Licorice gained the title of the best top laner in the North American challenger scene. As one of the first players in the region to master the now staple top laner Cho’Gath, Licorice not only gained the interest of pundits, but of various players within the NA LCS. Moving into this offseason, Licorice was considered a top North American native prospect.
