Liquid changes CS2 roster: Daps leaves, NAF renews contract

Counter-Strike: Global Offensive

21 Nov

Andre Guaraldo

In a whirlwind of roster changes and strategic restructuring, Team Liquid is making headlines in the competitive Counter-Strike scene. The departure of Damian "daps" Steele, the extension of Keith "NAF" Markovic's contract, and the impending roster overhaul for CS2 has created a buzz as the new season approaches.

Team Liquid changes roster: Daps is released, NAF renews contract

Liquid keeps the rostermania active by releasing Daps and keeping NAF for the long-term strategy of the team (credits: Team Liquid)

Daps bids farewell to Team Liquid

After 17 months with Team Liquid, Canadian tactician daps has officially parted ways with the organization. The decision is part of Liquid's broader restructuring process, which has already seen the exit of Robert "Patsi" Isyanov and the benching of Aleks "Rainwaker" Petrov. The reins of the team are expected to be taken over by Wilton "zews" Prado, marking a new chapter for Liquid's leadership.

https://twitter.com/TeamLiquidCS/status/1726692252582543524

Team Liquid in a transition period

Daps' tenure with Liquid witnessed initial success, especially with the acquisition of Mareks "YEKINDAR" Gaļinskis, leading the North American squad to a prosperous period. However, as the team transitioned to a European lineup and results dwindled, Liquid found themselves in need of another rebuild. The departure of daps signals the organization's commitment to a fresh start and a return to the pinnacle of competitive CS2.

The North American organization lived glorious days in the North American scene and wants to repeat the formula in Europe (credits: Team Liquid)

The North American organization lived glorious days in the North American scene and wants to repeat the success in Europe (credits: Team Liquid)

NAF's commitment to the cause

In a significant move, NAF, the seasoned Canadian player, has extended his contract with the organization through mid-2026. NAF's five-year tenure with the team has already been illustrious, featuring numerous international titles, an Intel Grand Slam victory, four MVP medals, and multiple appearances in the Top 20 players in the world. His decision to recommit comes at a pivotal moment as Liquid undergoes substantial changes to revitalize the team for the upcoming CS2 season.

https://twitter.com/NAFFLY/status/1726722886541689134

Roster evolution

Liquid's roster for CS2 is undoubtedly undergoing a major facelift, with reports suggesting the addition of Felipe "skullz" Medeiros, Casper "cadiaN" Møller, Russel "Twistzz" Van Dulken, and the aforementioned zews. Only NAF and YEKINDAR will remain, highlighting the organization's commitment to building a competitive roster and also maintaining a diverse lineup. The combination of experienced players and fresh talent signals Liquid's determination to reclaim their position at the top of the CS2 rankings.

Skullz is one of the most promising talents in the Brazilian scene and is expected to join Team Liquid in the upcoming weeks (credits: ESL)

Skullz is one of the most promising talents in the Brazilian scene and is also expected to join Team Liquid in the upcoming weeks (credits: ESL)

Conclusion

In summary, as Liquid navigates through intense roster changes and strategic adjustments, the CS2 community eagerly awaits the unveiling of the revamped lineup. The departure of daps, the extension of NAF's contract, and the influx of new talent undoubtedly underpins a period of transformation, setting the stage for an exciting and competitive CS2 season ahead.