Rumor: NAVI Reach Agreement with Hans SamD
Recently, NAVI officially returned to the professional League of Legends scene by purchasing the Rogue slot in the LEC — read more about this in our dedicated article. Now, the first information about a new signing has emerged: according to rumors, NAVI has reached a verbal agreement with South Korean AD Carry Lee "Hans SamD" Jae-hoon. This was reported by Sheep Esports, citing their own sources.
Will Hans SamD Replace Patrik?
According to Sheep Esports, a verbal agreement has already been reached between NAVI and the player, and the buyout of his contract from his current club Ici Japon Corp is reportedly agreed upon. Hans SamD is expected to play as the starting ADC for the team in the LEC Summer 2025.
In his place, Patrik "Patrik" Jiru — one of the most experienced players on the European scene — is preliminarily set to be moved to the bench. The organization informed him of this at the start of the offseason.
Who Will Stay on the Roster?
As a reminder, NAVI acquired the entire Rogue roster, including the coaching staff. According to Sheep Esports, the organization decided to retain top laner Adam "Adam" Maanane and mid laner Emil "Larssen" Larsson. The latter is rumored to remain with the team at a reduced salary. Thus, the names of only two players — the jungler and support — are currently unknown.
Hans SamD's Return to Top-Level Play?
Former Hanwha Life Esports and Victory Five player, Hans SamD spent the last year and a half in the French LFL, playing for Ici Japon Corp. During the 2024–2025 season, he became one of the league's top players and, according to Sheep Esports, was on the list of potential signings for GIANTX , but did not make the final roster.
In an interview with Sheep Esports in April 2025, SamD admitted:
My only goal is to play in the LEC and face Hans Sama. That's all I want.
He also emphasized his preference for the LEC over returning to the LCK.
If the rumors are confirmed, he will get his chance in the summer of 2025 and may face G2 Esports player Steven "Hans Sama" Liv on the line.
Possible NAVI Roster for LEC Summer 2025:
Top: Adam "Adam" Maanane
Jungle: TBD
Mid: Emil "Larssen" Larsson
ADC: Lee "Hans SamD" Jae-hoon
Support: TBD
