Maokai - the next tier 1 tank?

Maokai, the Twisted Treant, is Riot's latest attempt to make up for their streak of disappointing champion designs since Trundle. From what I have seen so far, Maokai seems to be quite a solid attempt to end the streak. Maokai is a tank; most likely built quasi-tank judging from his abilities. While Maokai possess immense teamplay potential, he is also a direct counter to the current "team AOE to win" meta-game.