Malphite vs Sylas Counter Pick

Hijack converts Malphite’s best asset into a liability. Sylas steals an enemy ultimate and casts it freely, and Unstoppable Force — a long-distance engage that knocks up everything it hits — is close to an ideal theft. The 40.7% win rate over 462 games on patch 16.13.1 is not only about that interaction, but it colours every decision Malphite makes.

The stat comparison is uncomfortable. Sylas finishes at 2,674 health at level 18 against Malphite’s 2,433 despite starting lower at 600 versus 665, and Kingslayer heals him whenever it connects with a champion. His damage is magic, aimed straight at the 28 base magic resist that is Malphite’s weakest defensive stat, while 40 armor growing to 124.2 does nothing to slow it. Petricite Burst adds an area hit after every spell, so even a clean approach through brush costs health.

Two advantages survive. Granite Shield’s 10% maximum-health absorb resets out of combat, and Ground Slam’s attack speed reduction hurts a champion who weaves attacks between casts. Both matter more in a group fight than a duel. Sylas rates 5 for difficulty against Malphite’s 2, so execution is not the separator — the tools are. He also strikes from 175 against 125 and moves at 340 against 335, a small pair of edges that decides who lands the opening spell. Holding the ultimate until Hijack has been spent is the practical adjustment.