Amar'e Stoudemire snubs Karl Malone from his Mount Rushmore of power forwards: 'He wasn’t as good as Dirk'

Nowitzki vs. Malone

Putting the German legend over "The Mailman" was unexpected. Malone's career, which spanned 19 seasons, included remarkable feats like leading the Utah Jazz to two NBA Finals appearances and winning two MVP awards in 1997 and 1999, even against the legendary Michael Jordan.

Karl's consistency and durability remain unparalleled. He was renowned for his pick-and-roll partnership with John Stockton, amassing most of his points from mid-range jumpers and physical play in the paint.

Yet, Stoudemire, who played alongside the German big man during a one-year stint at the Dallas Mavericks, saw things differently. As the NBA's 2011 Finals MVP, the German forrward brought a level of skill and versatility that forever changed the perception of big men. He could stretch the floor and sink clutch shots—using his iconic fadeaway jumper.

In the 2011 NBA Finals, he led the Mavericks to a stunning six-game victory over the heavily favored Miami Heat, a series that elevated his status to legendary. The victory was marked by the Dirk's clutch performances, including a decisive Game 4.

With just 20 seconds remaining, Dallas clung to a slim 82–81 lead to tie the series two apiece. Driving hard to the basket, Nowitzki maneuvered through Miami's defense and finished with a smooth layup, putting the Mavs up by three with just 14.4 seconds left.

The Mavs eventually defeated the Heat in six games, and perhaps that championship gave the Mavs legend an edge over the Jazz legend, at least according to Amar'e.