Reggie Miller settles Michael Jordan vs. Scottie Pippen defensive debate

Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen anchored the Chicago Bulls defense throughout their dynasty run in the 1990s. Jordan claimed a Defensive Player of the Year Award in 1988 and earned one more All-Defensive First Team honor than Pippen.

The stats point in Jordan's favor, but plenty of players who battled them during that era tell a different story when the conversation shifts to pure lockdown defense. Jordan's offensive brilliance has never been questioned. However, when it came to shutting down opponents, many believed Pippen had the edge.

Reggie Miller gives his opinion on Michael Jordan vs. Scottie Pippen defense debate

Reggie Miller went toe-to-toe with both stars in several intense playoff series during the '90s, and he's one of the voices backing Pippen as the tougher defensive assignment.

Jordan appeared in 1,072 games and pulled down 6,672 rebounds, with 5,004 coming on the defensive end. He averaged 167.6 steals and 59.5 blocks per season. Pippen played in 1,178 games and grabbed 7,494 total rebounds, including 5,426 on defense. His averages sat at 135.7 steals and 55.7 blocks per season. On paper, Jordan holds the statistical advantage.

But Miller has his reasons for picking Pippen, and they go beyond the box score. Speaking on "The Dan Patrick Show," the Hall of Famer explained why Pippen stood out as the stronger defensive presence.

"Scottie was guarding one through five and as good as Mike was and I say that because Mike had to guard me and I had some of my best games against Jordan, but when they put Scottie on me, it was a little different," Miller said.