Due to how the current Dota2 Major cycle works, roster changes are something that every team must think about the moment they are knocked out of contention from the Major. The reason is due to the scheduling. Ther off time between when a Major ends and when the next Major qualifier starts is a matter of days. As that’s the case, teams that lock down prospective roster changes and start practicing with their new lineup will have a slight head-start compared to the competition.

As that’s the case, I’m going to pick out some of the roster changes that I think will immediately boost up some of the mid-tier teams. For now I’ll focus on the Western scene as most of the Chinese teams are still in the tournament, so it’s doubtful that any of them are thinking of roster moves.

The two teams that may be thinking of a roster change right now are the ones that didn’t make the Major: OG and NiP. OG still need a fifth player to take on the carry position. As for NiP, I think they lack the raw firepower to be a consistent team at the top level. Ace, Fata, and [33] are each limited in what they can do relative to other top teams.

So for now, let’s look at the best options for both teams. I think both should consider players from [A]lliance. [A]lliance have consistently shown they are good enough to make it out of the online qualifiers, but once you get them to LAN, they look shook. Their last game at the Major Chaos EC looked like unadulterated fear and a lack of experience. Both OG and NiP have players that can get them over those problems. OG have n0tail and 7Mad, NiP have PPD. I’d say the primary player they’d both want from the team is Micke.

NiP also have the additional option of trying to get Resolution from Forward Gaming. While he’s shown himself to be attached to the project and players, losing can change everything. This team has gone downhill since coming together and it looks worse with each outing. I still think Resolution is the shining light on this squad and NiP need a strong world class carry player like him.

While those would be my ideal changes, I’m uncertain as to how likely either team could get Micke. The Swedish scene in general has always been insular to a certain extent and likely won’t change as they prefer playing together rather than playing abroad. We’ll have to see moving forward if any of these teams decide to make a roster change moving forward.