Malone is the best, why is this a debate? He used to shut down legends including PF's and centers like Larry Bird, Patrick Ewing, Hakeem Olajuwon, Shaq, Kevin Mchale, Charles Barkley etc. There isn't talent like that in the NBA today. Including when Duncan came into the league. Give me a break. Malone in his younger days would actually run the ball coast to coast in transition. His defense and passing ability far surpasses any PF to ever play.