Kyle “Danny” Sakamaki, the standout AD carry for Evil Geniuses, won a tough five-game series against Team Liquid this past weekend, but he won’t be playing in the 2022 LCS Championship finals. The organization’s CEO Nicole LaPointe released a statement today, saying that it took the 18-year-old “a great deal of courage and self-awareness” to take a step back from play, especially because he cares so much for his teammates and the situation at hand. But she also said that the team understands and supports his decision through and through.
Danny has been an integral part of EG’s rise to the top of the mountain over this past year, earning himself the moniker of “King of Pentakills” after exploding onto the competitive scene as one of the youngest and most exciting members of the roster. At such a young age, however, it can be tough to deal with the pressures of professional play, especially when so many expectations are placed on one’s shoulders so early into their career.
“Kyle is a part of this family and we will continue to support him in every way possible as he takes time away, and we look forward to welcoming him back when he’s ready,” LaPointe said. “To fans of the LCS community, we ask that you show Kyle nothing but unwavering support and the empathy he deserves from all of us.”
EG has not announced Danny’s temporary replacement, although the org does have Muhammed Hasan “Kaori” Şentürk as an option from its academy roster. EG will take on 100 Thieves this Saturday, Sept. 10 at 3pm CT.
This is a breaking news story with more details to follow. Updates will be added as soon as possible.