Quest Esports has announced Nikita "Daxak" Kuzmin as their new Dota 2 coach for the upcoming DreamLeague Season 21 and The International 12 (TI12). This appointment marks a significant departure from convention, as Daxak, a seasoned Dota 2 player with a seven-year-long career, has virtually no prior coaching experience. The move comes after Quest Esports underwent a recent roster change and parted ways with their former coach, Gennadiy “GuessWho” Filatov.

Daxak to Lead Quest Esports’ Dota 2 Roster From Backend

Daxak, known for his prowess as a carry player, finds himself stepping into uncharted territory as he embarks on his coaching journey with Quest Esports. The decision to tap a player to lead the team from the coach's seat is a bold one and has left many Dota 2 enthusiasts curious about the outcomes it might yield.

Throughout his career, Daxak has experienced a rollercoaster ride, having played for several teams with mixed results. His reputation, however, soared when he demonstrated his proficiency on unconventional carry heroes like Visage and Nature's Prophet, gaining significant recognition in the Dota 2 community.

One of the most significant challenges Daxak faces is providing valuable insights and strategies to a team that has been undergoing changes and improvements in recent months. Quest Esports aims to find stability in its roster through this coaching transition, adding an extra layer of pressure to Daxak's new role.

Daxak's motivation for stepping into the coaching role is to chase his dream of participating in The International. In a statement shared on Telegram, he expressed that he decided to become a trainer because he has always juggled multiple responsibilities and maintained good relationships within the community. His desire to compete at The International is a driving force, and he hopes for a smooth transition into coaching, aiming for a seamless visa process and settling in with the team.

Quest Esports and Daxak will face their first test together when DreamLeague Season 21 kicks off on September 18, 2023. However, the real litmus test awaits at The International 12, commencing on October 12, 2023, where they will be up against some of the best Dota 2 teams in the world. All eyes will be on Daxak as he navigates this new role and attempts to steer Quest Esports to success on the international stage.

Also read: Topson Joins Tundra Esports for TI12: Roster Changes Announced

Quest Esports' decision to appoint Daxak as their Dota 2 coach is undoubtedly a daring move, one that challenges traditional norms within the esports industry. The transition from player to coach is often a road less traveled, but Daxak's experience and unique approach to the game may just be the winning formula Quest Esports needs to achieve their ambitions in DreamLeague Season 21 and The International 12.