Pangolier vs Warlock

How this matchup plays

Controlling the map's tempo often comes down to which of these heroes gets to play their game first. Pangolier has all the tools to get on top of Warlock and interrupt his most important spells. Rolling Thunder can cancel Chaotic Offering from a screen away, and Swashbuckle lets him dodge the Golem or reposition easily. Warlock, however, is built to punish heroes who dive into his team. Fatal Bonds is incredibly effective against Pangolier, who tends to fight near creeps and allies, spreading the Golem's persistent burn damage across everyone. A well-placed Upheaval can also severely limit Pangolier's mobility, making it hard for him to start a fight.

The matchup becomes a game of vision and initiation. Pangolier wants to find a flank and roll onto Warlock before he can react, effectively ending the fight before it begins. A successful gank completely neutralizes Warlock's teamfight presence. In response, Warlock has to position defensively and rely on his team for protection. If he can see the initiation coming, a pre-emptive Chaotic Offering can stop Pangolier cold. The fight then hinges on whether Pangolier can survive the counter-attack, as Fatal Bonds will turn his own team's damage back onto him.