Kha Y Tran MSI 2026 is just around the corner. While fans are eagerly waiting for the world’s best teams to clash, Riot Games has already revealed the first details of League of Legends Patch 26.13.
This is not just another balance update. Instead, many analysts believe Patch 26.13 could directly shape the competitive meta at MSI 2026. Several popular professional picks are receiving nerfs. Meanwhile, traditional carry ADCs are finally getting buffs.
As a result, MSI 2026 could feature one of the biggest meta shifts of the year.
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Traditional Carry ADCs Receive Major Buffs
The biggest news in Patch 26.13 is the return of carry marksmen.
The champions receiving buffs are:
- Aphelios
- Draven
- Kai’Sa
These champions can deal huge damage. They can also take over games when they get enough gold.
Recently, professional teams have focused more on tanks and teamfight setups. As a result, ADCs have played a smaller role.
However, this patch may change that.
If these buffs are strong enough, bot lane could become the center of the meta again. Therefore, teams with elite ADC players may gain a huge advantage.
Aphelios Could Return to Pro Play
Aphelios is one of the most interesting champions on the buff list.
He has always been a favorite in professional play. His damage is incredible in late-game fights. In addition, his high skill ceiling rewards talented players.
However, he has struggled in recent metas. Faster games have made it harder for him to scale.
Now, Riot may be giving him another chance.
Aphelios offers:
- Massive late-game damage
- Strong teamfighting
- High carry potential
- Flexible weapon combinations
Because of these strengths, top ADCs may bring him back at MSI.
Players like Gumayusi, Elk, and Peyz could benefit the most. Therefore, Aphelios may become a priority pick once again.
Draven Could Speed Up the Meta
Draven brings a completely different playstyle.
Unlike Aphelios, Draven wants to dominate early. He thrives in aggressive lanes. He can also generate huge gold leads through his passive.
As a result, even a small buff can make him dangerous.
A stronger Draven forces opponents to play carefully. Otherwise, he can snowball out of control very quickly.
In addition, MSI often rewards confidence and aggression. Therefore, players who enjoy taking risks may be eager to pick him.
If Draven becomes popular, games could become faster and more explosive.
Kai’Sa Remains a Flexible Choice
Kai’Sa is another big winner of Patch 26.13.
She remains one of the most versatile ADCs in the game.
Her strengths include:
- Strong mobility
- Mixed damage output
- Good scaling
- Playmaking potential
Because of this, Kai’Sa fits many team compositions. She can follow engages. Kai’Sa can dive into fights. She can also carry long games.
As a result, her priority at MSI 2026 may increase significantly.
Riot Nerfs Several Meta Champions
While ADCs are getting stronger, many popular champions are receiving nerfs.
The list includes:
- Senna
- Bard
- Brand
- Cassiopeia
- K’Sante
- Rek’Sai
- Rumble
- Sion
These champions have been common in both solo queue and professional play.
Therefore, Riot clearly wants to shake up the current meta.
Senna and Bard Lose Some Power
Senna and Bard have been two of the strongest support picks this season.
Both champions offer strong utility. They also provide excellent map control.
As a result, many teams have relied on them.
However, their nerfs could reduce their dominance. More importantly, other support champions may finally get a chance to shine.
Because of that, the support meta could look very different at MSI.
Top Lane May Look Completely Different
The top lane is also receiving major changes.
K’Sante, Rumble, and Sion are all being nerfed.
These champions have been staples of professional play for a long time. They offer durability, reliable engage tools, and strong teamfight value.
However, that may change soon.
With these nerfs, teams may start looking for new options. Some may even return to carry top laners.
As a result, top lane could become more aggressive and more exciting.
Item Changes Could Matter Too
Patch 26.13 also includes item adjustments.
Imperial Mandate is receiving a buff. Meanwhile, Doran-related options are being toned down.
These changes may seem small. However, they can still affect the meta.
For example, poke supports may gain more value. Likewise, champions that rely on coordinated damage could become stronger.
Therefore, teams will need to adapt quickly.
MSI 2026 Could Feature a New Meta
Overall, Patch 26.13 looks like an important update.
Riot is buffing several traditional ADCs. At the same time, it is nerfing many popular tanks and utility champions.
As a result, the balance of power may shift.
Bot lane could become more important. Team compositions could become more aggressive. In addition, individual mechanics may matter even more.
If these changes remain in place, MSI 2026 could deliver one of the most exciting metas in recent years. Fans may finally see the return of classic ADC carries. More importantly, they could witness a completely new competitive landscape on the international stage.
Read more: HLE Overcomes T1 and Reaches MSI for the First Time
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