Best Support Counters Against Maokai

Best Support Counters Against Maokai

By Marcus Chen

March 1, 2025 at 08:43 PM

Beating Maokai Support: Essential Counter Guide

Laning Phase

Maokai is particularly dangerous in bushes and at level 2. Here's how to counter him effectively:

  • Stand on the top side of the lane to avoid his E (Sapling) bush traps
  • Match or beat him to level 2 to prevent his strong all-in potential
  • Utilize your range advantage but stay outside his W (Root) range
  • Be cautious at level 1 until you confirm which ability he started

Mid-Game Strategy

To minimize Maokai's impact during the mid-game:

  • Avoid jungle fights where his ultimate is most effective
  • Stay grouped when sieging to prevent W isolation picks
  • Ward side bushes to spot potential flanks
  • Watch for side-angle ultimates in team fights

Strong Counter Picks:

  1. Taric
  2. Swain
  3. Leona
  4. Braum
  5. Renata Glasc

Weak Matchups:

  1. Sona
  2. Shaco
  3. Galio
  4. Alistar
  5. Fiddlesticks

Power Spike Windows

Be especially careful during these moments:

  • Level 2: His W-Q combo becomes available
  • Level 3: Full combo potential with E bush control
  • Team fights: His ultimate can lock down entire teams

Key Counter Tactics:

  • Spread out during team fights to minimize ultimate impact
  • Control vision around objectives to prevent flanks
  • Stay away from bushes where saplings are placed
  • Engage when his W is on cooldown

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