LCK squads hold the strongest implied probability in this 12-team field because three mid-tier Korean rosters (typically 5th–7th seeds) bring superior macro execution, mechanical depth, and proven international results against non-LCK sides, even outside the top domestic teams. LPL entries sit close behind, benefiting from home-region scheduling in Beijing and comparable talent pools after strong MSI 2026 placement earned them equal slots. Western regions trail due to thinner overall rosters and limited recent success in best-of-five series versus Eastern competition, while LCP and CBLOL face the steepest path with single slots. The Swiss-to-single-elimination format with Bo5 knockouts rewards consistent regional strength over bracket luck, shaping the current trader consensus ahead of the October 3 start.