Yep, Polygon limits means tri count, a poly is a poly :D And I think LoD0 are also used in the Hero Preview when picking heroes in AP for example, or when customizing your hero.
Ah right on zip, good advice, I think i'll skip on sniper for now and brainstorm a new hero. Definitely lots to consider when choosing a hero that isn't in the valve documents yet. It would be nice to have a list of heroes that are ready to have items made for them officially released , though for those of you with the…