Exploring SlasheR’s future options after LA Thieves benching in CDL 2021
Introduction
The Call of Duty League landscape shifted dramatically when LA Thieves made the surprising decision to bench veteran assault rifle player Austin ‘SlasheR’ Liddicoat. This move, announced on April 5, 2021, saw Zack ‘Drazah’ Jordan take his place in the starting lineup for the CDL Stage 2 Major.
The benching of SlasheR sent shockwaves through the competitive Call of Duty community, as the decorated veteran has consistently ranked among the top AR players in recent seasons.
Known for his championship pedigree and leadership qualities often compared to Michael Jordan’s competitive mentality, SlasheR’s benching raises numerous questions about his future in professional Call of Duty. This analysis explores five potential paths forward for the accomplished player.
Fighting Back for His LA Thieves Spot
The most straightforward path would see SlasheR reclaim his starting position with LA Thieves. Despite the current benching, several factors suggest this remains a strong possibility:
- As the team’s only true assault rifle specialist, his skillset fills a critical role
- His championship experience provides intangible benefits during high-pressure matches
- The organization has significant investment in his contract and brand value
However, reclaiming his spot would require addressing whatever issues led to the benching. Team chemistry concerns with core members Kenny ‘Kenny’ Williams and Thomas ‘TJHaly’ Haly may need resolution through improved communication or adjusted roles.
Potential Trade Scenarios
Should LA Thieves consider trading SlasheR, several teams emerge as potential destinations where his skills could make an immediate impact:
- London Royal Ravens: While Sean ‘Seany’ O’Connor performs adequately, SlasheR would represent a significant upgrade. The Ravens would need to structure an attractive package likely involving substantial buyout money given their limited trade assets.
- LA Guerrillas: A move to cross-town rivals could reunite SlasheR with former teammate Bryan ‘Apathy’ Zhelyazkov. This would address the Guerrillas’ struggles with Adam ‘Assault’ Garcia’s inconsistent performance as their main AR.
- Florida Mutineers: As analysts have noted, a trade involving Joseph ‘Owakening’ Conley could benefit both teams. Florida gains veteran leadership while LA Thieves acquire a promising young talent plus potential financial compensation.
The challenge lies in SlasheR’s current market value versus contract demands. Teams must weigh his championship experience against recent performance trends and the significant investment required to acquire him.
The Challengers Route
While competing in the Challengers division represents a theoretical option, multiple factors make this path unlikely for SlasheR:
- The competitive gap between CDL and Challengers would represent a significant step down
- Financial compensation in Challengers pales compared to CDL salaries
- His veteran status and accomplishments make developmental play unappealing
If he did pursue this route, it would likely be as a temporary measure while awaiting another CDL opportunity or the return of LAN events. However, the Challengers environment may not align with his competitive standards or career aspirations.
Retirement Possibilities
Retirement remains the most surprising but plausible scenario. SlasheR previously indicated he might consider stepping away if the 2021 season remained online-only:
“He himself has said in the past that he would consider retirement if CDL was played online this season.”
(via @INTELCallofDuty)
Several factors could influence this decision:
- Potential return of LAN events later in the season
- Lack of appealing competitive opportunities
- Desire to transition to coaching or content creation
— Dexerto Esports (@DexertoEsports) April 5, 2021
What’s Next for the Veteran AR?
SlasheR’s next move remains uncertain, but each potential path carries significant implications for both the player and the league. The coming weeks will reveal whether he:
- Reclaims his starting role through improved team dynamics
- Brings his championship experience to a new organization via trade
- Makes the surprising choice to step away from competition
Regardless of the outcome, SlasheR’s situation highlights the complex roster decisions teams face in the competitive Call of Duty landscape.
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