ONIC Esports has officially confirmed major adjustments to its Mobile Legends: Bang Bang lineup ahead of MPL Indonesia Season 17. As the defending champion, ONIC ID faces enormous expectations, and the organization has responded with a bold strategy focused on regeneration and depth. The announcement of new players, combined with notable absences, signals a new competitive chapter for the Yellow Hedgehog.
This reshuffle is not merely about replacing names on a lineup sheet. It reflects ONIC’s long-term vision to stay dominant in an increasingly competitive MPL ecosystem. With young talents stepping up and experienced stars taking a step back, fans are now eager to see how this new formula performs when the season begins.
ONIC ID Updated Roster and the Key Changes Explained
The biggest highlight of the ONIC ID updated roster is the promotion of Sam Salomo Hosyo, better known as Ssamuel, to the main MPL squad. Previously a consistent performer for ONIC Prime in the MDL circuit, Ssamuel has earned his spot after five seasons of steady development. His promotion underlines ONIC’s commitment to nurturing talent from within rather than relying solely on high-profile transfers.
Ssamuel joins the team as a roamer, a role that has become increasingly vital in modern Mobile Legends. Roamers are responsible for vision control, initiating team fights, and enabling core players to scale efficiently. ONIC’s coaching staff believes Ssamuel’s calm decision-making and strong macro understanding can bring fresh balance to the team.
Alongside Ssamuel, ONIC also strengthened its firepower by adding Duane “Kelra” Pillas from ONIC Philippines. Known as one of Southeast Asia’s most feared gold laners, Kelra’s arrival adds a new offensive dimension. However, his inclusion also comes with tough decisions, as ONIC confirmed that Skylar and Savero will not be part of the MPL ID S17 roster. Skylar is taking a personal break, while Savero did not pass internal selection.
Why ONIC Is Betting on Youth and Regeneration
The ONIC ID updated roster shows a clear shift toward sustainable success rather than short-term fixes. MPL Indonesia has grown faster and more competitive each season, with teams constantly adapting to new metas and playstyles. ONIC’s management understands that relying on the same core indefinitely can limit flexibility.
Promoting players like Ssamuel allows ONIC to inject new energy into the team while maintaining its established identity. Younger players tend to adapt faster to patch changes and evolving strategies, which is crucial in a fast-paced league like MPL. At the same time, veterans such as Kairi, Sanz, and Kiboy provide leadership and stability, ensuring the team does not lose its competitive edge.
This balance between experience and youth is what makes ONIC’s roster update particularly intriguing. Rather than a complete overhaul, the team opted for targeted changes that address specific needs without disrupting overall synergy.
What This Means for ONIC ID’s Title Defense in MPL ID S17
As the reigning champion, ONIC enters MPL ID S17 with a target on its back. Every opponent will prepare specifically to counter their playstyle. With the ONIC ID updated roster, the team gains an element of unpredictability. New faces mean new strategies, drafts, and in-game dynamics that rivals must quickly learn to adapt to.
Ssamuel’s performance will be one of the biggest storylines to watch. If he can translate his MDL consistency to the MPL stage, ONIC’s macro game could become even stronger. Meanwhile, Kelra’s presence raises expectations for ONIC’s late-game damage output, potentially making them more lethal in high-pressure matches.
For fans, this season promises excitement both inside and outside the game. As MPL ID S17 approaches, it’s also the perfect time to prepare your own in-game experience. Don’t forget to top up Mobile Legends: Bang Bang at Vocagame, especially with the Valentine flash sale happening on February 14. It’s a great chance to grab diamonds at a better value while enjoying the hype of the new season.
Ultimately, ONIC’s roster changes are a statement of intent. They are not just defending a title—they are building a foundation for continued dominance. Whether this strategy pays off will soon be answered once MPL ID S17 officially kicks off.
