Los Angeles Thieves: CDL 2026 Team Preview
The 2025 season for the Los Angeles Thieves was a tale of two extremes. After a dominant late-season surge where they won back-to-back Majors, they entered the CDL Championship as the definitive favorites, only to suffer a shocking early exit. In response, the organization made blockbuster moves, parting ways with two key players to construct a new superteam for the 2026 season. With a roster loaded with championship DNA and explosive slaying power, the LA Thieves are on a mission for redemption and have their sights set squarely on a world title.
Los Angeles Thieves Roster Overview
The Thieves have built a certified god-squad, blending two of the league’s most dominant returning players with a pair of legendary champions. This lineup is designed for consistency in the biggest moments and possesses a staggering amount of individual talent.
The 2026 Los Angeles Thieves starting roster is:
- Main AR: Thomas “Scrap” Ernst
- Flex: Kenny “Kenny” Williams
- SMG: Paco “HyDra” Rusiewiez
- SMG: Tyler “aBeZy” Pharris
Key Players to Watch
aBeZy: The acquisition of aBeZy is one of the biggest moves of the offseason. A two-time World Champion and widely considered one of the greatest SMG players of all time, he brings unparalleled aggression, speed, and a winning pedigree. After five years with the FaZe dynasty, aBeZy joins the Thieves with a chip on his shoulder, ready to start a new chapter. His partnership with HyDra has the potential to be the most feared SMG duo in the entire league.
Kenny: The return of “King Kenny” to the LA Thieves is a major storyline. A multi-time world champion who won a ring with this very organization in 2022, Kenny is a versatile and intelligent player who can excel in any role. After a successful stint at OpTic Gaming, he comes back to provide veteran leadership, clutch playmaking, and championship intangibles. His calming presence and ability to perform under pressure will be invaluable.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
This team’s primary strength is its staggering collection of talent and championship experience. All four players are considered among the best at their respective roles, and with multiple world championships between them, they know what it takes to win. The slaying potential is immense; the SMG duo of aBeZy and HyDra is a terrifying prospect for any opponent, while Scrap and Kenny provide a powerful and reliable presence on the map. On paper, this team has no discernible weaknesses in gunskill or game knowledge.
Weaknesses:
As with any newly formed superteam, the biggest hurdle will be managing egos and building chemistry. While they are all incredible players, they must learn to play as a single, cohesive unit. The team is loaded with vocal and opinionated leaders, and they will need to quickly establish a clear in-game system and hierarchy to avoid clashing playstyles. The weight of championship-or-bust expectations from day one could also create immense pressure.
Season Outlook
The Los Angeles Thieves enter the 2026 season with the highest possible expectations. This roster was assembled to win championships, period. Anything less than being a top-three team and consistently appearing in grand finals will be viewed as a failure. They have the firepower to match any team in the league, including the formidable FaZe Vegas squad.
Expect the Thieves to be an elite, top-tier team from the outset. Their journey will be defined by their ability to mesh their immense talents into a singular, unstoppable force. If they can build the necessary chemistry, this team has all the ingredients to dominate the league and bring another World Championship back to Los Angeles.
