Malzahar vs Ryze MID Matchup Guide | LaneStomp

Back to matchup selector

Champion

Opponent

RoleGenerate matchup

Malzahar

VS

Mid

Ryze

Malzahar vs Ryze

Updated May 31, 2026

Overview

Malzahar aims to keep midlane pushed constantly to deny Ryze safe scaling and roaming opportunities.
Maintain medium lane pressure and control to prevent Ryze from farming comfortably or setting up spell rotations.

Trading pattern

Push with E and Voidlings, then threaten Ryze with Q silence when he steps forward to cast Ryze E or Ryze Q.
Punish Ryze when his mana is low or Ryze W is down to prevent his follow-up rotations.
Avoid trading when Ryze has mana and Ryze W ready, as his spell rotations and root can punish you.

Danger windows

Respect Ryze's Ryze W root combined with Ryze E spread and Ryze Q damage when he has mana and cooldowns.
Be cautious when Ryze's Ryze W is up and mana is sufficient, as he can root and punish your ultimate channel.
Avoid overextending if Ryze's Ryze R is available for roams or coordinated plays.

Early game

Use E and W to push waves quickly and force Ryze under tower where his short range and mana constraints limit threat.
Avoid extended trades early; focus on wave control since Ryze has low early agency and relies on mana for trades.
Be wary of Ryze's Ryze W root, but his early damage is low if you keep pressure and don't overextend.

Power spikes

Malzahar's level 6 R lockdown is a major spike to threaten Ryze's short-range and scaling.
First completed mana/AP item boosts Malzahar's damage and lane presence significantly.
Ryze's first mana/AP item and level 6 Ryze R enable safer farming and map plays, so respect these timings.

Win conditions

Keep midlane pushed permanently with E and Voidlings to deny Ryze safe scaling and roaming.
Use R to lock down Ryze when he steps forward for trades or roams.
Maintain lane pressure to force Ryze to farm under tower and limit his spell rotation effectiveness.