Gnar vs Tahm Kench TOP Matchup Guide | LaneStomp

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Tahm Kench

Gnar vs Tahm Kench

Updated Jun 3, 2026

Overview

Gnar should control lane spacing using mini form poke and kite to prevent Tahm Kench from stacking his passive easily.
This matchup is a control vs survive lane where Gnar pressures to deny Tahm Kench's short trades and sustain windows.

Trading pattern

Trade mainly in mini form using ranged (Q) poke and kite with (E) to avoid Tahm Kench's short melee trades.
Punish Tahm Kench when his passive stacks reset or (E) gray health shield is low by stepping forward for damage.
Avoid committing to trades when Tahm Kench has three passive stacks or (R) is available.

Danger windows

Respect Tahm Kench's threat when he reaches three passive stacks enabling (Q) stun and (R) potential.
Avoid all-ins or extended trades when your (E) hop is down in mini form, as you become vulnerable to his engage.
Be cautious fighting near walls without Rage ready, as Tahm Kench can punish your mega form engage cooldowns.

Early game

Use mini form (Q) and (W) to chip Tahm Kench and keep him from reaching three passive stacks.
Avoid fighting when (E) is down to prevent getting caught in (Q) stun.
Time your Rage bar to transform into mega form for key trades or to contest river fights.

Power spikes

Level 6 mega form (R) gives Gnar strong engage and crowd control near terrain; enter fights with Rage nearly full.
Tahm Kench's level 6 (R) allows him to isolate or protect targets; respect (R) cooldown to avoid getting caught.
Tahm Kench's first tank item increases his durability; kite and poke before he gains this advantage.

Win conditions

Use mini form ranged poke and kiting to deny Tahm Kench from stacking passive and engaging safely.
Manage Rage to transform into mega form for impactful crowd control near terrain to set up dives or teamfights.
Force Tahm Kench into unfavorable short trades by punishing his passive cooldowns and avoiding his (R) windows.