Malzahar vs Kennen TOP Matchup Guide | LaneStomp

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Malzahar vs Kennen

Updated Jun 4, 2026

Overview

Use lane control and wave pressure to deny Kennen safe poke windows and prevent him from stacking marks easily.
Focus on maintaining a pushed lane state to leverage Malzahar's control mage identity and threaten map presence.
Prioritize defensive adaptation to avoid Kennen's stun combos and preserve ultimate channel opportunities.

Trading pattern

Push with (E) and Voidlings, then threaten trades with (Q) silence when Kennen steps forward to proc marks.
Avoid predictable patterns; vary your approach to prevent Kennen from punishing your ultimate channel.
Punish (E) cooldown by engaging aggressively when he lacks mobility and stun setup.

Danger windows

Beware (R) area stun when he has stacked marks and flank or flash angles ready.
Respect Kennen's passive mark stun during extended trades to avoid being locked down.
Avoid grouping in choke points where Kennen can maximize (R) impact and follow-up damage.

Early game

Use (E) and Voidlings to push early waves and force Kennen under tower where his poke is less effective.
Avoid extended trades before level 6 to prevent Kennen from capitalizing on his ranged poke and mobility.
Track (E) cooldown to exploit his vulnerability after he uses it for engage or escape.

Power spikes

At level 6, use (R) suppression for verified all-ins or picks, respecting Kennen's need to hold defensive tools.
After your first mana/AP item, increase wave pressure and trade confidence to outpace Kennen's poke.
Respect Kennen's level 6 (R) area stun and flank angles by spacing carefully and holding key defensive cooldowns.

Win conditions

Keep the lane pushed to deny Kennen safe poke and force him to farm under tower.
Use (R) suppression to secure picks and create pressure for objective control.
Leverage wave control and ultimate lockdown to enable map presence and teamfight advantage.