Zeri vs Kai'Sa ADC Matchup Guide | LaneStomp

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Zeri

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ADC

Kai'Sa

Zeri vs Kai'Sa

Confidence highUpdated Jun 7, 2026

Overview

The lane turns on Zeri punishing Kai'Sa's last-hit paths with (W) through walls and (Q) poke.
Zeri wins extended trades with (R) active and terrain access; Kai'Sa threatens short all-ins after evolve.
Hold wave near your side to deny Kai'Sa isolated targets and reduce her all-in threat.

Trading pattern

Punish Kai'Sa stepping up for caster minion last hits with (W) through walls if enemy support cannot punish.
Avoid punishing if enemy support controls brush or can immediately trade back after your step forward.
Use (Q) poke when (W) is on cooldown to reduce her plasma stacks and all-in windows.

Danger windows

Kai'Sa's all-in is strongest after she lands (W) plasma stacks combined with support CC.
Avoid stepping forward when (E) is available for aggressive repositioning and follow-up (R).
Respect enemy support control of brush or engage cooldowns that enable immediate trades or hooks on you.

Early game

Use the first three waves to farm safely and hold the wave near your turret to limit Kai'Sa's dash options.
Avoid pushing early to prevent Kai'Sa from isolating you for (Q) damage and follow-up (R).
Track (E) use; she is vulnerable after dashing forward without support CC setup.

Power spikes

Level 6 (R) lets you kite extended fights and punish Kai'Sa's short burst all-ins by repositioning.
First completed marksman item increases your sustained poke and safety, allowing safer last-hit punishments.
Two-item spike greatly enhances your DPS and kiting, enabling objective control and forcing Kai'Sa to fight on your terms.

Win conditions

Convert last-hit punishments into health leads and crash waves to take turret plates and dragon control.
Use wall access and (E) mobility to stay safe until item spikes, then kite extended fights with (R).
Deny Kai'Sa isolated targets by holding wave near your side and force her into unfavorable trades without support setup.