Malzahar vs Gragas TOP Matchup Guide | LaneStomp

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Malzahar vs Gragas

Updated Jun 4, 2026

Overview

Malzahar is a control mage aiming to keep the wave pushed and use suppression picks to control the lane.
Focus on maintaining lane pressure to deny Gragas's short burst trades and prevent him from using his sustain effectively.
This is a control vs. disruptive teamfight matchup where Malzahar must manage wave control and ultimate windows carefully.

Trading pattern

Push with (E) and Voidlings, then threaten silence (Q) or (R) suppression when Gragas steps forward.
Punish Gragas after he misses (E) as he loses both engage and escape options.
Avoid trading when (W) damage reduction and passive sustain are active; wait for cooldowns to expire.

Danger windows

Beware of (E) stun from fog or short range; avoid predictable positioning.
Respect (R) displacement which can isolate you or interrupt your (R) channel.
Be cautious during Gragas's passive sustain windows and after you expend your ultimate, as he can punish cooldowns.

Early game

Use (E) and Voidlings to push early waves and prevent Gragas from safely engaging with (E) stun.
Avoid extended fights before level 6 where Gragas's burst and sustain favor him.
Track (E) cooldown to avoid his stun and punish when it is down by stepping forward with silence threat.

Power spikes

At level 6, use (R) to secure picks or defensive resets, respecting (R) displacement threat.
After first mana/AP item, increase wave pressure and trade confidence, forcing Gragas to respect your damage.
Respect Gragas's level 3 full kit power spike where he can short trade with (E) stun and (W) damage reduction.

Win conditions

Maintain constant wave pressure with (E) and Voidlings to deny Gragas safe trades and scaling.
Use (R) suppression to pick or disengage decisively around level 6.
Leverage your pushed lane state to influence other parts of the map and set up objectives with your team.