2020 has been a massive year for Toronto Defiant, with new management, a roster overhaul, and major names taking ownership of the organization. Let’s not forget the Defiant also won Best Canadian Esports Organization at the 2020 Canadian Video Game Awards. While 2020 has set the foundation for future success, what’s next for Toronto Defiant in 2021?
Coaching changes
2020 was a busy year for coaching changes within Toronto Defiant. Back in mid-April, Félix “Féfé” Münch made the decision to retire from coaching Overwatch altogether. David “Lilbow” Moschetto had to step in as Interim Head Coach, leading the Defiant to a 8-14 record to finish the season, and an early exit from the postseason play-in match to the Los Angeles Gladiators.
Defiant part-owner Adam Adamou made the decision to part ways with Lilbow and hire Dong-gun “KDG” Kim to take the mantle as head coach. With his coaching pedigree and proven track record, KDG’s arrival sparks hope of consistency. His direction should should be key in developing a solid foundation for a winning team culture and player development for 2021 and beyond.
Roster overhaul
The Defiant’s 2021 roster is full of fresh new faces outside of Andreas “Logix” Berghmans as the only returning player, and Adam “Beast” Denton rejoining the Defiant after a season with American Tornado. This gives KDG a clean slate to install a proper system to mold the Defiant to their full potential. Fans can look forward to the roster additions of Jeong-su “Aztac” Park (Flex Support), Soon-jae “ANSOONJAE” An (Support), Su-min “SADO” Kim (Tank), Hee-su “Heesu” Jeong (DPS), and Min-hyuk “Michelle” Choi (Off-tank).
New (co-)wnership
Adam Adamou still runs the show for the Toronto Defiant. It’s the major 2020 announcements of former IGN host Naomi Kyle and Toronto Maple Leafs winger Mitch Marner as new co-owners that brings major excitement to Toronto Defiant. These additions could bring a major injection to the Toronto Defiant fanbase for the upcoming season. Kyle is the ex-host of IGN’s Daily Fix, Cheap Cool Crazy, and The Next Game Boss, and Marner is the 7th highest paid player in the NHL, and one of the core pieces on the Maple Leafs’ roster.
Look for Toronto Defiant to make some major moves in 2021, as they climb higher in the Overwatch League.