Who Wins
- You win pre-6 trades through superior mobility and range, as Malzahar lacks gap closers and has limited trading tools early.
- Post-6 becomes heavily Malzahar-favored since his R completely shuts down your mobility and sets up easy ganks.
How to Trade
- Your optimal trading pattern involves Q poke from max range, then using W-E combo when he steps up for CS to proc Electrocute before backing off with movement speed.
- Never commit to extended trades as his E-W combo outdamages you in sustained fights.
Wave Control
- Push early levels to establish priority before his waveclear comes online, then transition to freezing near your tower once he gets items.
- You want to deny him the ability to shove and roam while keeping the wave in a position where his R becomes less threatening.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Never use your R aggressively post-6 unless you're certain of the kill, as getting caught mid-dash by his R is often fatal.
- Don't try to match his waveclear once he has lost chapter, as you'll go OOM while he sustains with his passive.
Created on 04/23/2026
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