Karl Malone leaves Michael Jordan off his all time starting 5

Former NBA great Karl Malone is causing some controversy this week. The future Hall of Famer power forward appeared on “The Dan Patrick Show” this week and among the topics covered, Malone was asked to name his all-time starting five. Malone turned some heads.

Malone spoke about LeBron James and some of the greatest players who have ever played the game. When asked to name his all-time starting five, Malone took John Stockton and Oscar Robertson as his guards, Wilt Chamberlain at center, LeBron at power forward and Scottie Pippen at small forward. Pippen and no Jordan — really?

“Scottie Pippen led the team in every statistical category while he was there without Michael Jordan,” Malone explained. “That’s why I have to put him there. So now you know.” […]

Malone also admitted to having a “man crush” on King James. Perhaps it’s their similar diesel body types. No Kobe, no Bird… whatever Karl Malone. He’s the real reason why the Lakers didn’t win the finals in 04. That team went as he did that season. I respect Malone’s game but yeah, there’s a disconnect for me with him. But, everyone is entitled to their choices… Pippen though…