HLE reveals a ban/pick weakness after three consecutive losses

HLE is experiencing a troubling phase, losing three matches in a row to DK, KT Rolster, and T1. In addition to the performance of its players, the 2026 MSI titleholder's draft approach has left plenty of doubts.

HLE repeatedly allows Yunara in decisive games

Within less than a week, HLE has lost three consecutive matches across all competitions. The most recent defeat came against T1 at the 2026 KeSPA Cup with a 1-2 score, following poor results against DK and KT Rolster. These are all direct rivals for HLE in the race for titles and a spot at the 2026 World Championship.

A notable common pattern emerged in the decisive games of all three matches. HLE allowed the opposing team to pick Yunara, an ADC with formidable late-game damage and scaling potential.

Yunara is not an entirely un-counterable champion. However, HLE has yet to find an effective solution to limit her power. The orange-clad team often failed to apply enough pressure in the early game and struggled to reach Yunara in crucial team fights.

With sufficient items and space to deal damage, Yunara quickly became the primary damage source, allowing DK, KT Rolster, and T1 to turn the tables even when HLE had the advantage. Repeating this draft choice for three consecutive games has drawn significant criticism for HLE's coaching staff.

Is HLE experimenting or struggling to find an answer?

Another possibility is that HLE is actively testing strategies before entering the crucial phase of the season. With their current advantage in the race for a 2026 World Championship spot, the team still has enough time to adjust their lineup and refine their gameplay.

However, consecutive losses to major opponents remain a warning sign. If they cannot quickly find a way to contain strong late-game carries like Yunara, HLE may continue to pay the price in the playoffs of the 2026 LCK season.

Three losses are not yet a disaster, but repeating the same mistake in decisive games shows that HLE needs to make changes quickly. A more sensible draft could be the key for the orange-clad team to regain their status as a championship contender.