Naafiri vs Locke MID Matchup Guide

Champion

Opponent

Start here

Read Overview → Trading Pattern → Danger Windows first for the fastest Mid lane plan.

Naafiri into Lockemedium

Overview

Use poke to chip Locke before committing to all-ins.
Avoid engaging with if Locke's crowd control or mobility is available to block or punish.
Your goal is to isolate Locke or catch him low-health to maximize chase and burst.

Start trades with to apply bleed and wait for Locke's defensive cooldowns.
Commit with and only when Locke's crowd control or mobility is down.
Use to enhance chase on isolated or low-health Locke, avoiding predictable engage paths.

Locke's marks and slows enable his follow-up; avoid trading when multiple nails hit.
Be wary when Locke activates as it drains his health but boosts damage and speed.
Locke's dash resets on takedowns; punish if he wastes it without securing kills.

Thin the wave early to create angles for poke without overextending.
Respect Locke's slow and marks; avoid trades if he lands multiple nails.
Track Locke's health drain window to punish when he is vulnerable after overcommitting.

Level 6 unlocks stronger all-in and chase potential; use this window for picks or roams.
First lethality item completion boosts poke and burst; pressure Locke more aggressively.
Track Locke's level 6 execute range and avoid extended fights when below threshold.

Use poke to force Locke low, then all-in with and .
Crash waves before recalls to deny Locke free farm and create roam opportunities.
Snowball kills by isolating Locke and exploiting his limited crowd control and predictable engage paths.

Tactical tip

For Naafiri vs Locke, read overview, trading pattern, and danger windows first for a fast Mid lane check.