Maokai Counter Guide: Tips & Strategy

Playing against Maokai in the support role requires understanding his key abilities and exploiting his weaknesses.

Strong Counters to Maokai:

• Taric
• Swain
• Leona
• Braum
• Renata Glasc

Laning Phase Tips:

• Stay away from bottom-side bushes to avoid Sapling (E) damage
• Match or beat Maokai to level 2 to prevent all-in potential
• Maintain maximum range to prevent his root (W) engage
• Use ranged champions to harass safely

Mid-Game Strategy:

• Avoid jungle fights where his ultimate is most effective
• Keep team positioned together during sieges to prevent picks
• Ward side lanes to spot potential flanks
• Split up when you see his ultimate to minimize CC impact

Power Spike Awareness:

• Level 2: Strong all-in potential with W-Q combo
• Level 3: Bush control with E (Saplings)
• Team fights: Ultimate provides massive zone control

General Counterplay:

• Pick long-range supports with disengage
• Control vision around objectives
• Position away from bushes during laning
• Coordinate with team to avoid clustered formations

Poor Matchups vs Maokai:

• Sona
• Shaco
• Alistar
• Fiddlesticks
• Galio

Combat Tips:

1. Bait out his abilities before engaging
2. Focus on poking from safe distance
3. Coordinate with jungler for ganks when his W is down
4. Buy early boots to dodge Saplings
5. Consider building early magic resistance

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