Whetstone
Heroes of the Storm

Patch 2.57 Updated

Healer · StarCraft

Stukov

Infested Admiral

Role
Healer
Attack
Melee
Difficulty
Hard
Released
11 Jul 2017
Last patched
29 Jul 2025
Damage
3/10
Utility
8/10
Survivability
5/10
Complexity
7/10

Stukov is strong against

Score 1–100 for Stukov's net edge once both kits are weighed (50 = neutral)

  1. Illidan Curated
    Why? 6
    • CuratedIllidan's engages and escapes are all abilities; Lurking Arm silences him in its zone, and Weighted Pustule's growing slow plus Bio-Kill Switch's 70% Slow keep him from leaving.via Lurking Arm, Weighted Pustule, Bio-Kill Switch, Dive, Sweeping Strike
    • TheoryStukov has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Illidan off a target.
    • TheoryStukov can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Biotic Armor), which Illidan relies on for damage. Only when Stukov takes Biotic Armor.
    • TheoryStukov's silence (Lurking Arm, Bio-Explosion Switch) can stop Illidan in the middle of a dive.
    • TheoryIllidan can dive onto Stukov, who has little mobility to escape.
    • TheoryIllidan can interrupt channels with stun (The Hunt), and Stukov relies on channelled abilities. Only when Illidan takes The Hunt.
  2. The Butcher Curated
    Why? 7
    • CuratedLurking Arm silences The Butcher so he can't Hamstring or apply a fresh Brand, and Flailing Swipe, if Stukov takes it, knocks him off his target after Ruthless Onslaught lands.via Lurking Arm, Flailing Swipe, Hamstring, Butcher's Brand, Ruthless Onslaught
    • TheoryStukov has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel The Butcher off a target.
    • TheoryStukov can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Biotic Armor), which The Butcher relies on for damage. Only when Stukov takes Biotic Armor.
    • TheoryStukov's silence (Lurking Arm, Bio-Explosion Switch) can stop The Butcher in the middle of a dive.
    • TheoryThe Butcher can dive onto Stukov, who has little mobility to escape.
    • TheoryThe Butcher can interrupt channels with stun (Ruthless Onslaught), and Stukov relies on channelled abilities.
    • TheoryThe Butcher can ignore or remove crowd control (Ruthless Onslaught), weakening Stukov's stun. Only when Stukov takes Massive Shove.
  3. Fenix Theory
    Why? 2
    • TheoryStukov can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Biotic Armor), which Fenix relies on for damage. Only when Stukov takes Biotic Armor.
    • TheoryStukov can interrupt channels with silence (Lurking Arm, Bio-Explosion Switch), and Fenix relies on channelled abilities.
  4. Tychus Theory
    Why? 2
    • TheoryStukov can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Biotic Armor), which Tychus relies on for damage. Only when Stukov takes Biotic Armor.
    • TheoryStukov can interrupt channels with silence (Lurking Arm, Bio-Explosion Switch), and Tychus relies on channelled abilities.
  5. Xal'atath Theory
    Why? 3
    • TheoryStukov can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Biotic Armor), which Xal'atath relies on for damage. Only when Stukov takes Biotic Armor.
    • TheoryStukov's healing undoes the chip damage Xal'atath lands from range.
    • TheoryStukov can interrupt channels with silence (Lurking Arm, Bio-Explosion Switch), and Xal'atath relies on channelled abilities.
23 more below the bar

Weaker mechanical edges

Generic rule matches with no hand-written matchup behind them: scoring under 65, or past the 8 strongest.

  1. Cassia 62 Theory Stukov can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Biotic Armor), which Cassia relies on for damage. Only when Stukov takes Biotic Armor.
  2. Hanzo 59 Theory Stukov can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Biotic Armor), which Hanzo relies on for damage. Only when Stukov takes Biotic Armor.
  3. Li-Ming 59 Theory Stukov's healing undoes the chip damage Li-Ming lands from range.
  4. Samuro 59 Theory Stukov can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Biotic Armor), which Samuro relies on for damage. Only when Stukov takes Biotic Armor.
  5. Sgt. Hammer 59 Theory Stukov can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Biotic Armor), which Sgt. Hammer relies on for damage. Only when Stukov takes Biotic Armor.
  6. Valla 59 Theory Stukov can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Biotic Armor), which Valla relies on for damage. Only when Stukov takes Biotic Armor.
  7. Zul'jin 59 Theory Stukov can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Biotic Armor), which Zul'jin relies on for damage. Only when Stukov takes Biotic Armor.
  8. Azmodan 57 Theory Stukov can interrupt channels with silence (Lurking Arm, Bio-Explosion Switch), and Azmodan relies on channelled abilities.
  9. Li Li 57 Theory Stukov can interrupt channels with silence (Lurking Arm, Bio-Explosion Switch), and Li Li relies on channelled abilities.
  10. Lt. Morales 57 Theory Stukov can interrupt channels with silence (Lurking Arm, Bio-Explosion Switch), and Lt. Morales relies on channelled abilities.
  11. Greymane 56 Theory Stukov has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Greymane off a target.
  12. Falstad 55 Theory Stukov can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Biotic Armor), which Falstad relies on for damage. Only when Stukov takes Biotic Armor.
  13. Lunara 55 Theory Stukov's healing undoes the chip damage Lunara lands from range.
  14. Malfurion 55 Theory Stukov's healing undoes the chip damage Malfurion lands from range.
  15. Nova 55 Theory Stukov's healing undoes the chip damage Nova lands from range.
  16. Orphea 55 Theory Stukov can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Biotic Armor), which Orphea relies on for damage. Only when Stukov takes Biotic Armor.
  17. Probius 55 Theory Stukov's healing undoes the chip damage Probius lands from range.
  18. Zagara 55 Theory Stukov's healing undoes the chip damage Zagara lands from range.
  19. Artanis 54 Theory Stukov has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Artanis off a target.
  20. Kharazim 54 Theory Stukov has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Kharazim off a target.
  21. Mephisto 52 Theory Stukov has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Mephisto off a target.
  22. Raynor 52 Theory Stukov can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Biotic Armor), which Raynor relies on for damage. Only when Stukov takes Biotic Armor.
  23. Thrall 51 Theory Stukov has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Thrall off a target.

Stukov is weak against

Score 1–100 for their net edge over Stukov's kit

  1. Ana Curated
    Why? 4
    • CuratedBiotic Grenade stops healing on the enemies it hits, so throwing it just before Bio-Kill Switch detonates the Healing Pathogens wastes Stukov's main burst heal.via Biotic Grenade, Bio-Kill Switch, Healing Pathogen
    • TheoryAna reduces healing received (Biotic Grenade), which cuts into Stukov's healing.
    • TheoryAna can interrupt channels with stun (Sleep Dart), and Stukov relies on channelled abilities.
    • TheoryAna can ignore or remove crowd control (Purifying Darts, Smelling Salts), weakening Stukov's stun. Only when Ana takes Purifying Darts or Smelling Salts. Stukov must also take Massive Shove.
  2. Valeera Curated
    Why? 7
    • CuratedValeera opens on Stukov from Vanish and he has no escape; Garrote (Eviscerate from Stealth) silences him so he can't place Lurking Arm, and Wound Poison (level 4) halves his healing.via Vanish, Eviscerate, Wound Poison, Lurking Arm
    • TheoryValeera can dive onto Stukov, who has little mobility to escape.
    • TheoryValeera reduces healing received (Wound Poison), which cuts into Stukov's healing. Only when Valeera takes Wound Poison.
    • TheoryValeera can interrupt channels with stun (Blade Flurry), and Stukov relies on channelled abilities.
    • TheoryValeera reduces enemy Armor (Sinister Strike), offsetting Stukov's Physical Armor. Only when Stukov takes Biotic Armor.
    • TheoryStukov has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Valeera off a target.
    • TheoryStukov's silence (Lurking Arm, Bio-Explosion Switch) can stop Valeera in the middle of a dive.
  3. Zeratul Curated
    Why? 5
    • CuratedZeratul cloaks onto a Stukov who has no dash and keeps Singularity Spike, Cleave and Basic Attacks on him before Bio-Kill Switch's slows can buy him time.via Permanent Cloak, Singularity Spike, Cleave, Bio-Kill Switch
    • TheoryZeratul can dive onto Stukov, who has little mobility to escape.
    • TheoryZeratul can interrupt channels with Time Stop (Void Prison), and Stukov relies on channelled abilities. Only when Zeratul takes Void Prison.
    • TheoryStukov has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Zeratul off a target.
    • TheoryStukov's silence (Lurking Arm, Bio-Explosion Switch) can stop Zeratul in the middle of a dive.
  4. Dehaka Theory
    Why? 3
    • TheoryDehaka reduces healing received (Paralyzing Enzymes), which cuts into Stukov's healing. Only when Dehaka takes Paralyzing Enzymes.
    • TheoryDehaka can interrupt channels with stun (Drag), and Stukov relies on channelled abilities.
    • TheoryDehaka reduces enemy Armor (Primal Swarm), offsetting Stukov's Physical Armor. Only when Dehaka takes Primal Swarm. Stukov must also take Biotic Armor.
  5. Stitches Theory
    Why? 4
    • TheoryStitches reduces healing received (Master Hooker), which cuts into Stukov's healing. Only when Stitches takes Master Hooker.
    • TheoryStitches reduces enemy Armor (Pulverize), offsetting Stukov's Physical Armor. Only when Stitches takes Pulverize. Stukov must also take Biotic Armor.
    • TheoryStitches can interrupt channels with stun (Gorge), and Stukov relies on channelled abilities. Only when Stitches takes Gorge.
    • TheoryStitches can ignore or remove crowd control (Gas Bag), weakening Stukov's stun. Only when Stitches takes Gas Bag. Stukov must also take Massive Shove.
  6. Garrosh Theory
    Why? 3
    • TheoryGarrosh reduces healing received (Body Check), which cuts into Stukov's healing. Only when Garrosh takes Body Check.
    • TheoryGarrosh can interrupt channels with stun (Groundbreaker, Warbreaker), and Stukov relies on channelled abilities.
    • TheoryGarrosh can ignore or remove crowd control (Into the Fray), weakening Stukov's stun. Only when Stukov takes Massive Shove.
View 5 more
  1. Varian 69 Theory Varian reduces healing received (Mortal Strike), which cuts into Stukov's healing. Only when Varian takes Mortal Strike.
    2 more reasons
    • Varian reduces enemy Armor (Colossus Smash), offsetting Stukov's Physical Armor. Only when Varian takes Colossus Smash. Stukov must also take Biotic Armor.
    • Varian can interrupt channels with silence (Taunt), and Stukov relies on channelled abilities. Only when Varian takes Taunt.
  2. D.Va 67 Theory D.Va reduces healing received (Aggression Matrix), which cuts into Stukov's healing. Only when D.Va takes Aggression Matrix.
    2 more reasons
    • D.Va reduces enemy Armor (Target Locked), offsetting Stukov's Physical Armor. Only when D.Va takes Target Locked. Stukov must also take Biotic Armor.
    • D.Va can ignore or remove crowd control (Bunny Hop), weakening Stukov's stun. Only when D.Va takes Bunny Hop. Stukov must also take Massive Shove.
  3. Lúcio 67 Theory Lúcio reduces healing received (Mixing Fire), which cuts into Stukov's healing. Only when Lúcio takes Mixing Fire.
    2 more reasons
    • Lúcio can interrupt channels with stun (Heavy Casters), and Stukov relies on channelled abilities. Only when Lúcio takes Heavy Casters.
    • Lúcio can ignore or remove crowd control (High Five), weakening Stukov's stun. Only when Lúcio takes High Five. Stukov must also take Massive Shove.
  4. Brightwing 65 Theory Brightwing can interrupt channels with silence (Polymorph, Hush!), and Stukov relies on channelled abilities.
    2 more reasons
    • Brightwing reduces enemy Armor (Critterize), offsetting Stukov's Physical Armor. Only when Brightwing takes Critterize. Stukov must also take Biotic Armor.
    • Brightwing can ignore or remove crowd control (Soothing Mist), weakening Stukov's stun. Only when Stukov takes Massive Shove.
  5. Deathwing 65 Theory Deathwing can interrupt channels with stun (Onslaught), and Stukov relies on channelled abilities.
    2 more reasons
    • Deathwing reduces enemy Armor (Death Drop), offsetting Stukov's Physical Armor. Only when Deathwing takes Death Drop. Stukov must also take Biotic Armor.
    • Deathwing can ignore or remove crowd control (Aspect of Death), weakening Stukov's stun. Only when Stukov takes Massive Shove.
35 more below the bar

Weaker mechanical edges

Generic rule matches with no hand-written matchup behind them: scoring under 65, or past the 8 strongest.

  1. Diablo 65 Theory Diablo can interrupt channels with stun (Shadow Charge, Overpower), and Stukov relies on channelled abilities.
  2. Hogger 65 Theory Hogger can interrupt channels with stun (Staggering Blow, Shockwave), and Stukov relies on channelled abilities.
  3. Mei 65 Theory Mei can interrupt channels with stun (Blizzard, Avalanche), and Stukov relies on channelled abilities.
  4. Nazeebo 63 Theory Nazeebo reduces healing received (Annihilating Spirit), which cuts into Stukov's healing. Only when Nazeebo takes Annihilating Spirit.
  5. Qhira 63 Theory Qhira can dive onto Stukov, who has little mobility to escape.
  6. Sonya 62 Theory Sonya can dive onto Stukov, who has little mobility to escape.
  7. Maiev 61 Theory Maiev can dive onto Stukov, who has little mobility to escape.
  8. Deckard 60 Theory Deckard reduces healing received (Emerald), which cuts into Stukov's healing. Only when Deckard takes Emerald.
  9. Gazlowe 60 Theory Gazlowe can interrupt channels with stun (Xplodium Charge, Grav-O-Bomb 3000), and Stukov relies on channelled abilities.
  10. Johanna 60 Theory Johanna can interrupt channels with stun (Condemn, Falling Sword), and Stukov relies on channelled abilities.
  11. Sylvanas 60 Theory Sylvanas can interrupt channels with silence (Wailing Arrow, Mind Control), and Stukov relies on channelled abilities.
  12. Anub'arak 57 Theory Anub'arak can interrupt channels with stun (Impale, Burrow Charge), and Stukov relies on channelled abilities.
  13. Arthas 57 Theory Arthas reduces enemy Armor (Shattered Armor), offsetting Stukov's Physical Armor. Only when Arthas takes Shattered Armor. Stukov must also take Biotic Armor.
  14. Auriel 57 Theory Auriel reduces enemy Armor (Wrath of Heaven), offsetting Stukov's Physical Armor. Only when Auriel takes Wrath of Heaven. Stukov must also take Biotic Armor.
  15. Chen 57 Theory Chen reduces enemy Armor (Accumulating Flame), offsetting Stukov's Physical Armor. Only when Chen takes Accumulating Flame. Stukov must also take Biotic Armor.
  16. Chromie 57 Theory Chromie can interrupt channels with Time Stop (Time Trap, Chronic Conditions), and Stukov relies on channelled abilities.
  17. Imperius 57 Theory Imperius reduces enemy Armor (Melting Touch), offsetting Stukov's Physical Armor. Only when Imperius takes Melting Touch. Stukov must also take Biotic Armor.
  18. Kael'thas 57 Theory Kael'thas can interrupt channels with stun (Gravity Lapse), and Stukov relies on channelled abilities.
  19. Leoric 57 Theory Leoric can interrupt channels with silence (Buried Alive), and Stukov relies on channelled abilities. Only when Leoric takes Buried Alive.
  20. Muradin 57 Theory Muradin can interrupt channels with stun (Storm Bolt, Haymaker), and Stukov relies on channelled abilities.
  21. Rexxar 57 Theory Rexxar can interrupt channels with stun (Misha, Charge!), and Stukov relies on channelled abilities.
  22. Zarya 57 Theory Zarya can interrupt channels with silence (Gravity Kills), and Stukov relies on channelled abilities. Only when Zarya takes Gravity Kills.
  23. Alarak 56 Theory Alarak can ignore or remove crowd control (Last Laugh), weakening Stukov's stun. Only when Alarak takes Last Laugh. Stukov must also take Massive Shove.
  24. Blaze 56 Theory Blaze can ignore or remove crowd control (New Habits), weakening Stukov's stun. Only when Blaze takes New Habits. Stukov must also take Massive Shove.
  25. Tyrande 56 Theory Tyrande can interrupt channels with stun (Lunar Flare), and Stukov relies on channelled abilities.
  26. Yrel 56 Theory Yrel can ignore or remove crowd control (Hand of Freedom), weakening Stukov's stun. Only when Yrel takes Hand of Freedom. Stukov must also take Massive Shove.
  27. Cho'gall 55 Theory Cho'gall reduces healing received (Enraged Regeneration), which cuts into Stukov's healing. Only when Cho'gall takes Enraged Regeneration.
  28. Junkrat 54 Theory Junkrat reduces enemy Armor (Big As), offsetting Stukov's Physical Armor. Only when Junkrat takes Big As. Stukov must also take Biotic Armor.
  29. Malthael 54 Theory Malthael reduces healing received (Touch of Death), which cuts into Stukov's healing. Only when Malthael takes Touch of Death.
  30. Rehgar 53 Theory Rehgar reduces healing received (Purification), which cuts into Stukov's healing. Only when Rehgar takes Purification.
  31. Genji 52 Theory Genji can dive onto Stukov, who has little mobility to escape.
  32. Jaina 52 Theory Jaina reduces enemy Armor (Northern Exposure), offsetting Stukov's Physical Armor. Only when Jaina takes Northern Exposure. Stukov must also take Biotic Armor.
  33. Kel'Thuzad 52 Theory Kel'Thuzad can interrupt channels with stun (Chains of Kel'Thuzad, Chains of Ice), and Stukov relies on channelled abilities.
  34. Tracer 51 Theory Tracer can dive onto Stukov, who has little mobility to escape.
  35. Xul 51 Theory Xul reduces healing received (Mortal Wound), which cuts into Stukov's healing. Only when Xul takes Mortal Wound.

Stukov works well with

Score 1–100 for how well the kits combine

  1. Garrosh Curated
    Why? 2
    • CuratedWrecking Ball throws an enemy into Lurking Arm, silencing them on landing while Garrosh's team collapses on the target.via Wrecking Ball, Lurking Arm
    • TheoryGarrosh holds the front line, giving Stukov room to deal damage from behind it.
  2. Hogger Curated
    Why? 2
    • CuratedMassive Shove pushes a Hero until it hits terrain, so a Loot Hoard dropped nearby ends the shove early in a stun right beside Hogger's Staggering Blow. Only when Stukov takes Massive Shove (level 10).via Massive Shove, Loot Hoard, Staggering Blow
    • TheoryHogger holds the front line, giving Stukov room to deal damage from behind it.
  3. Mei Curated
    Why? 2
    • CuratedIce Wall traps enemies for 2.5 seconds, keeping them inside Lurking Arm's silence and damage area. Only when Mei takes Ice Wall (level 10).via Ice Wall, Lurking Arm
    • TheoryMei holds the front line, giving Stukov room to deal damage from behind it.
  4. Samuro Curated
    Why? 1
    • CuratedWeighted Pustule's growing Slow keeps targets Slowed for seconds, which turns every Samuro hit into a Critical Strike through Merciless Strikes. Only when Samuro takes Merciless Strikes (level 16).via Weighted Pustule, Merciless Strikes
  5. Zarya Curated
    Why? 1
    • CuratedGraviton Surge holds enemies inside Lurking Arm's silence, and with Virulent Reaction (level 13) a Weighted Pustule detonating there roots them. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge (level 10).via Graviton Surge, Lurking Arm, Virulent Reaction, Weighted Pustule
  6. Kerrigan Theory
    Why? 3
    • TheoryStukov can keep Kerrigan alive through a dive.
    • TheoryStukov's stun (Massive Shove) holds targets still for Kerrigan's burst. Only when Stukov takes Massive Shove.
    • TheoryStukov's stun (Massive Shove) lets Kerrigan dive onto a target that cannot walk away. Only when Stukov takes Massive Shove.
View 7 more
  1. Sonya 73 Theory Stukov can keep Sonya alive through a dive.
    2 more reasons
    • Sonya holds the front line, giving Stukov room to deal damage from behind it.
    • Stukov's stun (Massive Shove) lets Sonya dive onto a target that cannot walk away. Only when Stukov takes Massive Shove.
  2. Valeera 73 Theory Stukov can keep Valeera alive through a dive.
    2 more reasons
    • Stukov's stun (Massive Shove) holds targets still for Valeera's burst. Only when Stukov takes Massive Shove.
    • Stukov's stun (Massive Shove) lets Valeera dive onto a target that cannot walk away. Only when Stukov takes Massive Shove.
  3. Zeratul 73 Theory Stukov can keep Zeratul alive through a dive.
    2 more reasons
    • Stukov's stun (Massive Shove) holds targets still for Zeratul's burst. Only when Stukov takes Massive Shove.
    • Stukov's stun (Massive Shove) lets Zeratul dive onto a target that cannot walk away. Only when Stukov takes Massive Shove.
  4. Chromie 71 Theory Stukov peels divers off Chromie, who cannot escape alone.
    1 more reason
    • Stukov's stun (Massive Shove) holds targets still for Chromie's burst. Only when Stukov takes Massive Shove.
  5. Kael'thas 71 Theory Stukov peels divers off Kael'thas, who cannot escape alone.
    1 more reason
    • Stukov's stun (Massive Shove) holds targets still for Kael'thas's burst. Only when Stukov takes Massive Shove.
  6. Kel'Thuzad 71 Theory Stukov peels divers off Kel'Thuzad, who cannot escape alone.
    1 more reason
    • Stukov's stun (Massive Shove) holds targets still for Kel'Thuzad's burst. Only when Stukov takes Massive Shove.
  7. Jaina 67 Theory Stukov can protect Jaina's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
    1 more reason
    • Stukov's stun (Massive Shove) holds targets still for Jaina's burst. Only when Stukov takes Massive Shove.
42 more below the bar

Weaker mechanical edges

Generic rule matches with no hand-written matchup behind them: scoring under 65, or past the 8 strongest.

  1. Li-Ming 67 Theory Stukov can protect Li-Ming's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
  2. Murky 67 Theory Stukov can protect Murky's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
  3. Nova 67 Theory Stukov can protect Nova's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
  4. Probius 67 Theory Stukov can protect Probius's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
  5. Artanis 66 Theory Stukov can keep Artanis alive through a dive.
  6. Illidan 66 Theory Stukov can keep Illidan alive through a dive.
  7. Maiev 66 Theory Stukov can keep Maiev alive through a dive.
  8. Qhira 66 Theory Stukov can keep Qhira alive through a dive.
  9. The Butcher 66 Theory Stukov can keep The Butcher alive through a dive.
  10. Thrall 66 Theory Stukov can keep Thrall alive through a dive.
  11. Azmodan 65 Theory Stukov peels divers off Azmodan, who cannot escape alone.
  12. Gul'dan 65 Theory Stukov peels divers off Gul'dan, who cannot escape alone.
  13. Nazeebo 65 Theory Stukov peels divers off Nazeebo, who cannot escape alone.
  14. Raynor 65 Theory Stukov peels divers off Raynor, who cannot escape alone.
  15. Sgt. Hammer 65 Theory Stukov peels divers off Sgt. Hammer, who cannot escape alone.
  16. Zul'jin 65 Theory Stukov peels divers off Zul'jin, who cannot escape alone.
  17. Genji 62 Theory Stukov's stun (Massive Shove) holds targets still for Genji's burst. Only when Stukov takes Massive Shove.
  18. Tracer 62 Theory Stukov's stun (Massive Shove) holds targets still for Tracer's burst. Only when Stukov takes Massive Shove.
  19. Abathur 60 Theory Stukov can protect Abathur's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
  20. The Lost Vikings 60 Theory Stukov can protect The Lost Vikings's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
  21. Alarak 57 Theory Stukov's stun (Massive Shove) holds targets still for Alarak's burst. Only when Stukov takes Massive Shove.
  22. Arthas 57 Theory Arthas holds the front line, giving Stukov room to deal damage from behind it.
  23. Blaze 57 Theory Blaze holds the front line, giving Stukov room to deal damage from behind it.
  24. Chen 57 Theory Chen holds the front line, giving Stukov room to deal damage from behind it.
  25. Cho'gall 57 Theory Cho'gall holds the front line, giving Stukov room to deal damage from behind it.
  26. D.Va 57 Theory D.Va holds the front line, giving Stukov room to deal damage from behind it.
  27. Deathwing 57 Theory Deathwing holds the front line, giving Stukov room to deal damage from behind it.
  28. Diablo 57 Theory Diablo holds the front line, giving Stukov room to deal damage from behind it.
  29. Hanzo 57 Theory Stukov's stun (Massive Shove) holds targets still for Hanzo's burst. Only when Stukov takes Massive Shove.
  30. Imperius 57 Theory Imperius holds the front line, giving Stukov room to deal damage from behind it.
  31. Johanna 57 Theory Johanna holds the front line, giving Stukov room to deal damage from behind it.
  32. Junkrat 57 Theory Stukov's stun (Massive Shove) holds targets still for Junkrat's burst. Only when Stukov takes Massive Shove.
  33. Leoric 57 Theory Leoric holds the front line, giving Stukov room to deal damage from behind it.
  34. Mal'Ganis 57 Theory Mal'Ganis holds the front line, giving Stukov room to deal damage from behind it.
  35. Muradin 57 Theory Muradin holds the front line, giving Stukov room to deal damage from behind it.
  36. Orphea 57 Theory Stukov's stun (Massive Shove) holds targets still for Orphea's burst. Only when Stukov takes Massive Shove.
  37. Stitches 57 Theory Stitches holds the front line, giving Stukov room to deal damage from behind it.
  38. Tassadar 57 Theory Stukov's stun (Massive Shove) holds targets still for Tassadar's burst. Only when Stukov takes Massive Shove.
  39. Tyrael 57 Theory Tyrael holds the front line, giving Stukov room to deal damage from behind it.
  40. Varian 57 Theory Varian holds the front line, giving Stukov room to deal damage from behind it.
  41. Xal'atath 57 Theory Stukov's stun (Massive Shove) holds targets still for Xal'atath's burst. Only when Stukov takes Massive Shove.
  42. Yrel 57 Theory Yrel holds the front line, giving Stukov room to deal damage from behind it.

Spot a wrong or missing matchup? Suggest a correction with the mechanical reason; accepted notes land in the theory layer for everyone.

Best maps for Stukov

Score 1–100 from how the kit fits each map's layout and objective (50 = neutral)

  1. Dragon Shire Theory
    Why? 1
    • TheoryStukov's silence (Lurking Arm, Bio-Explosion Switch) stops enemies channelling Dragon Shire's objective.
  2. Towers of Doom Theory
    Why? 1
    • TheoryStukov's silence (Lurking Arm, Bio-Explosion Switch) stops enemies channelling Towers of Doom's objective.

Harder maps for Stukov

Score under 50: the map's layout or objective works against the kit, hardest first

  1. Garden of Terror Theory
    Why? 1
    • TheoryStukov has little mobility to rotate across Garden of Terror's large layout.
  2. Sky Temple Theory
    Why? 1
    • TheoryStukov has little mobility to rotate across Sky Temple's large layout.
  3. Blackheart's Bay Theory
    Why? 2
    • TheoryStukov has little mobility to rotate across Blackheart's Bay's large layout.
    • TheoryStukov's silence (Lurking Arm, Bio-Explosion Switch) stops enemies channelling Blackheart's Bay's objective.
View 2 more
  1. Cursed Hollow 48 Theory Stukov has little mobility to rotate across Cursed Hollow's large layout.
    1 more reason
    • Stukov's silence (Lurking Arm, Bio-Explosion Switch) stops enemies channelling Cursed Hollow's objective.
  2. Warhead Junction 48 Theory Stukov has little mobility to rotate across Warhead Junction's large layout.
    1 more reason
    • Stukov's silence (Lurking Arm, Bio-Explosion Switch) stops enemies channelling Warhead Junction's objective.

All maps

Talents by level

  1. 1

    • Fetid Touch W Quest

      Basic Attacks become ranged and Slow enemies by 20% for 1.5 seconds, but deal 35% less damage. This effect can be toggled. Quest: Hit Heroes with Weighted Pustule. Reward: After hitting 15 Heroes, reduce the cooldown of Weighted Pustule by 5 seconds and remove its Mana cost.

    • Low Blow E

      Lurking Arm deals 100% more damage to enemy Heroes below 50% Health and persists for 1 second after it is canceled.

    • Reactive Ballistospores Active

      Activate to instantly spread a Weighted Pustule to all nearby enemy Heroes and reset the cooldown of Bio-Kill Switch. Passive: While below 50% Health, the cooldown of Bio-Kill Switch refreshes 100% faster.

  2. 4

    • One Good Spread... Q

      After a Healing Pathogen infests 3 targets, restore 10 Mana and reduce the cooldown of Healing Pathogen by 2 seconds.

    • Biotic Armor Q

      Healing Pathogen grants 10 Physical Armor to targets while active on them. Detonating Bio-Kill Switch increases this bonus to 50 for 2.5 seconds.

    • Vigorous Reuptake Trait

      Bio-Kill Switch heals for 30% more when detonating 3 or more Healing Pathogens.

  3. 7

    • The Long Pitch W

      Increase the range of Weighted Pustule by 50%. Detonating 2 or more Weighted Pustules causes Stukov's Bio-Kill Switch and Basic Ability cooldowns to recharge 100% faster for 4 seconds.

    • Growing Infestation E

      Lurking Arm's area expands by 50% over 2.5 seconds, but it cannot be Channeled for longer than 3 seconds.

    • Targeted Excision Trait

      Detonating exactly 1 Weighted Pustule (but any number of Healing Pathogens) with Bio-Kill Switch reduces the cooldown of Bio-Kill Switch to 7 seconds and other Basic Abilities by 1.5 seconds.

  4. 10

    • Flailing Swipe Heroic

      Swipe 3 times in front of Stukov over 1.75 seconds, dealing 48 (+4% per level) damage to enemies hit and knocking them away. Each swipe is larger than the previous.

    • Massive Shove Heroic

      Extend Stukov's arm. If it hits an enemy Hero, they are rapidly shoved until they collide with terrain, dealing 190 (+4% per level) damage and Stunning them for 0.5 seconds. Stukov gains 50 Armor while shoving an enemy.

  5. 13

    • It Hungers E

      Increase the range of Lurking Arm by 30%. If Lurking Arm damages enemy Heroes 8 times, its cooldown is reset and its Mana cost is refunded.

    • Virulent Reaction E

      Detonating a Weighted Pustule on an enemy who is inside of Lurking Arm Roots them for 1.5 seconds.

    • Poppin' Pustules Trait

      Detonating Weighted Pustule with Bio-Kill Switch within 1.5 seconds of its expiration increases its damage by 150% and applies its damage and Slow in an area. Enemy Heroes hit have a Weighted Pustule applied to them.

  6. 16

    • Superstrain Q

      Whenever an ally with Healing Pathogen is Stunned or Rooted, they are instantly healed for 300 (+4% per level) Health.

    • Universal Carrier Q

      Healing Pathogen can continually spread through Stukov, but its healing is reduced by 25%.

    • Pox Populi Trait

      Bio-Kill Switch no longer removes Healing Pathogen but instead sets its duration to 3 seconds.

  7. 20

    • Controlled Chaos Heroic

      Flailing Swipe gains 2 additional charges, but each use only swings 1 time, at maximum range. Additionally, its cooldown is decreased to 25 seconds, and its Mana cost is reduced from 60 to 25.

    • Push Comes To Shove Heroic

      Massive Shove Slows its target by 50% for 4 seconds upon colliding with terrain. If Massive Shove pushes a target for more than 1.25 seconds, its cooldown is reduced by 15 seconds.

    • Top Off Q

      Healing Pathogen's heal over time is increased by 30% while its target is above 60% Health.

    • Bio-Explosion Switch Trait

      Bio-Kill Switch now also detonates Lurking Arm, dealing 230 (+4% per level) damage, applying a Weighted Pustule, and Silencing enemy Heroes inside for 2.5 seconds.

  • Bio-Kill Switch D Trait

    16 s cooldown

    Activate to detonate all of Stukov's Viruses. Each Healing Pathogen heals its target for 435 (+4% per level) Health, and each Weighted Pustule does 100 (+4% per level) damage and Slows its target by 70% for 2 seconds. Can be cast while Channeling Lurking Arm.

  • Healing Pathogen Q Ability

    10 s cooldown 40 Mana

    Infest an allied Hero with a Healing Pathogen that heals the target for 222 (+4% per level) Health over 4.5 seconds. Healing Pathogens can spread to a nearby allied Hero every 0.75 seconds. Each cast of Healing Pathogen can only spread to each allied Hero 1 time.

  • Weighted Pustule W Ability

    10 s cooldown 50 Mana

    Hurl a pustule that impacts all enemy Heroes in its path, dealing 20 (+4% per level) damage and Slowing by 5%, increasing to 50% over 3 seconds. Deals an additional 88 (+4% per level) damage upon expiring or being removed.

  • Lurking Arm E Ability

    10 s cooldown 60 Mana

    Channel at a target location, creating an area that deals 136 (+4% per level) damage per second to non-Structure enemies and Silences them. Deals 50% reduced damage to non-Heroes. Does not cost Mana while Channeling, and lasts until canceled or interrupted.

  • Flailing Swipe R Heroic

    60 s cooldown 60 Mana

    Swipe 3 times in front of Stukov over 1.75 seconds, dealing 48 (+4% per level) damage to enemies hit and knocking them away. Each swipe is larger than the previous.

  • Massive Shove R Heroic

    20 s cooldown 50 Mana

    Extend Stukov's arm. If it hits an enemy Hero, they are rapidly shoved until they collide with terrain, dealing 190 (+4% per level) damage and Stunning them for 0.5 seconds. Stukov gains 50 Armor while shoving an enemy.

Mechanics tags

What the theory layer reads from Stukov's kit. Each tag shows the ability or talent text that produced it; curated notes cover play-style traits the text cannot show.

Crowd control

Displacement
Ability Flailing Swipe “Swipe 3 times in front of Stukov over 1.75 seconds, dealing 48 damage to enemies hit and knocking them away.”
Root
Talent Virulent Reaction “Detonating a Weighted Pustule on an enemy who is inside of Lurking Arm Roots them for 1.5 seconds.”
Silence
Ability Lurking Arm “…at a target location, creating an area that deals 136 damage per second to non-Structure enemies and Silences them.”
Talent Bio-Explosion Switch “…Lurking Arm, dealing 230 damage, applying a Weighted Pustule, and Silencing enemy Heroes inside for 2.5 seconds.”
Slow
Ability Weighted Pustule “…that impacts all enemy Heroes in its path, dealing 20 damage and Slowing by 5%, increasing to 50% over 3 seconds.”
Ability Bio-Kill Switch “…heals its target for 435 Health, and each Weighted Pustule does 100 damage and Slows its target by 70% for 2 seconds.”
Talent Fetid Touch “Basic Attacks become ranged and Slow enemies by 20% for 1.5 seconds, but deal 35% less damage.”
Talent Poppin' Pustules “…Switch within 1.5 seconds of its expiration increases its damage by 150% and applies its damage and Slow in an area.”
Stun
Ability Massive Shove “…Hero, they are rapidly shoved until they collide with terrain, dealing 190 damage and Stunning them for 0.5 seconds.”

Defense and mobility

Ally healing
Ability Healing Pathogen “Infest an allied Hero with a Healing Pathogen that heals the target for 222 Health over 4.5 seconds.”
Ability Bio-Kill Switch “Each Healing Pathogen heals its target for 435 Health, and each Weighted Pustule does 100 damage and Slows its target…”
Talent Superstrain “Whenever an ally with Healing Pathogen is Stunned or Rooted, they are instantly healed for 300 Health.”
Physical Armor
Talent Biotic Armor “Healing Pathogen grants 10 Physical Armor to targets while active on them.”
Self-healing
Talent Vigorous Reuptake “Bio-Kill Switch heals for 30% more when detonating 3 or more Healing Pathogens.”

Damage and macro

Area damage
Ability Lurking Arm “Channel at a target location, creating an area that deals 136 damage per second to non-Structure enemies and Silences…”
Ability Flailing Swipe “Swipe 3 times in front of Stukov over 1.75 seconds, dealing 48 damage to enemies hit and knocking them away.”
Talent Poppin' Pustules “…Switch within 1.5 seconds of its expiration increases its damage by 150% and applies its damage and Slow in an area.”
Channeled abilities
Ability Lurking Arm “Channel at a target location, creating an area that deals 136 damage per second to non-Structure enemies and Silences…”
Talent Growing Infestation “Lurking Arm's area expands by 50% over 2.5 seconds, but it cannot be Channeled for longer than 3 seconds.”

Play-style traits

Immobile
Curated note Stukov has no dash or blink, so he relies on teammates and Bio-Kill Switch's slows to survive a dive.
Peel
Curated note Flailing Swipe knocks divers away three times and Massive Shove pushes one into distant terrain, far from his allies.
  1. Heroes of the Storm Live Patch Notes, 29 Jul 2025 Patch Changed

    1 other change

    • ChangeFlailing Swipe: Effect changed (see Blizzard's notes)Level 10
  2. Heroes of the Storm PTR Patch Notes, 1 Jul 2025 PTR Changed

    1 other change

    • ChangeFlailing Swipe: Effect changed (see Blizzard's notes)Level 10

Catch up on everything since you last played

Guides and builds

Reference and esports

Whetstone links to these sites and never copies their write-ups; credit and copyright stay with their authors.