Jinx vs Smolder ADC Matchup Guide | LaneStomp

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Jinx

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ADC

Smolder

Jinx vs Smolder

Confidence mediumUpdated Jun 7, 2026

Overview

This lane turns on wave states that allow Jinx to use (Q) rockets to punish Smolder's grouped CS attempts.
Jinx wins extended trades after first item by leveraging rocket range and resets, while Smolder needs safe (Q) stacking.
Hold the wave near your side to deny Smolder safe (Q) stacks and force him into risky poke angles.

Trading pattern

Step forward to auto or poke with (W) when Smolder last-hits near clustered minions and support is out of position.
Use (Q) rockets to hit Smolder and minions simultaneously when he stands close to the wave for (Q) stacks.
Avoid trading if (E) is available or enemy support controls brush and threat zones.

Danger windows

(E) dash combined with support follow-up creates high all-in threat; avoid stepping forward when (E) is up.
When (W) poke is off cooldown and enemy support is positioned aggressively, avoid extended trades near the wave.
Be cautious if enemy support controls brush or engages through your (E) trap zones, as it opens engage paths.

Early game

Use the first three waves to thin the caster minions and create slow pushes near your tower.
Punish Smolder stepping up for low-health caster minions only if enemy support cannot immediately trade back.
Keep (E) ready to zone Smolder's engage paths, especially if support cooldowns allow peeling.

Power spikes

First item spike lets Jinx contest wave access and punish Smolder's CS attempts more safely with (Q) rockets.
Two-item power spike enables Jinx to threaten grouped fights with resets and extended DPS, forcing Smolder to respect.
Level 6 (R) allows Jinx to execute low-health targets and contest objectives, increasing lane and teamfight threat.

Win conditions

Survive early lane by denying Smolder safe (Q) stacks and punishing last-hit attempts with rockets.
Convert health and wave control leads into crashing waves to take plates and force Smolder recalls.
Reach item spikes to leverage rocket range and resets, then group for front-to-back fights where Jinx excels in DPS and cleanup.