Sami 'xseveN' Laasanen Has Been Transferred To HAVU
There's big news over at HAVU as the Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO) powerhouse has just signed Sami “xseveN” Laasanen. HAVU has bought out Sami's contract from ENCE, however, both sides have agreed he will still be loaned to ENCE for Valve-sanctioned events until the next Major comes to an end.
It comes after Sami was a mainstay of ENCE for two years and took some time away for himself. A release from ENCE explained how HAVU had a spot to fill during this time and Sami weighed up his options - deciding to switch teams.
Discussing his time with ENCE, xsevenN said, "I would like to thank ENCE for the opportunity to play for them. There were plenty of highlights and also low points, but most importantly great experiences and memories. I’m happy to close the chapter with the next Major together with the team and it makes no sense to throw that away. Thank you to all of my teammates and everyone in the organisation for your hospitality. I have nothing but good things to say about each of you".
ENCE reiterated that there was a "fluent negotiation process", but the team is happy for Laasanen to branch out following his stint. ENCE thanked him for being an "amazing player" and particularly for agreeing to stick with ENCE for the next Major campaign. The same thanks were echoed for HAVU "professionally handling the situation". The release concluded by praising the mentality of the Finnish esports community in general.
Click to enlargeSami's appointment comes just days after HAVU announced the depature of Aaro "hoody" Peltokangas. Peltokangas has left HAVU to focus on his VALORANT play. Following HAVU's pretty rough season, the loss of hoody was a big blow. Thankfully, Laasanen could be the white knight the team needs.
Taneli Veikkola, Head Coach & Partner of HAVU, said, "As soon as a situation where need of replacement for hoody arose, as esteemed player as xseveN was the immediate first choice for us. Out of our current roster, everyone else except Joonas “doto” Forss has played with Sami in the past under iGame banner. I’d like to thank ENCE for smooth negotiations and I’m happy we can do things together and push the Finnish scene forward".
ENCE has said it's looking at expanding its CS:GO team beyond just a starting lineup, so it looks like the departure/arrival of xseveN is just the start of a new chapter for both ENCE and HAVU.
Images via ENCE
