Matchup
Skill matchup
You are stronger late game — farm safe and avoid early trades.
Build vs Malzahar
Build adapted to this matchup
Starting items
Core build
Standard
Summoner spells
42%
20%Anti AD
Anti AP
Anti Tank
DPS
Other options
Precision
Conqueror
Presence of Mind
Legend: Alacrity
Last Stand
Resolve
Unflinching
Bone Plating
Power Spikes
Strength by game phase
Gwen
MalzaharMalzahar's abilities
Passive, spells and ultimate
When he hasn't recently taken damage or been crowd controlled, Malzahar gains massive damage reduction and crowd control immunity, lingering for a short period after taking damage.
Cooldowns
Cooldowns by spell rank
| Level | Q | W | E | R |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 6s | 8s | 11s | – |
| 6 | 6s | 8s | 11s | 2m20 |
| 9 | 6s | 8s | 11s | 2m20 |
| 11 | 6s | 8s | 11s | 1m50 |
| 16 | 6s | 8s | 9s | 1m20 |
| 18 | 6s | 8s | 7s | 1m20 |
Playing against Malzahar
How to counter and exploit weaknesses
Buy a QSS (Quicksilver Sash): it's the only way to break his R suppression. Mandatory for carries.
Break his passive shield with a small ability before engaging — otherwise it blocks your first CC.
Malzahar is weak in lane pre-6 and needs items — punish him aggressively in early game.
His R immobilizes him too: while he's R'ing an ally, focus Malzahar because he can't move.
Source: op.gg + LTL Engine · Patch 16.9.1 · May 9, 2026