Now that I think about it, I do see a clear argument for Malone.
Depending on how you treat Robinson's injuries; you could argue Robinson lost 2 seasons in 92 and 97.
Also yeah, Malone gave Robinson big troubles, although I do think that was a particularly bad matchup. While Robinson had flaws as a creator, Robinson is one of the better man defenders you will find at the big position. He had quick feet, so Robinson couldn't blow by him, and Malone just so happened to be stronger than Robinson with that lower-body strength of his; that lower center of gravity meant Robinson really struggled to get any leverage.
Though, Malone and Robinson are both some of the bigger PS droppers ever for superstars during their prime years in terms of RS to PS translation
I think the intriguing thing with Robinson is that he is arguably a top 5 defender ever (certainly is of the modern era), and someone who consistently anchored rosters with mediocre defensive talent to astronomical levels, and then when he was older, was arguably the best defender on all-time defensive teams along with Tim Duncan. Malone was a good defender but not touching anything of that magnitude.
You have to basically ask if you think Malone's scoring advantage and probable better playmaking makes the difference.
Robinson's on/off and impact metrics are absolutely bonkers getting to play next to Tim Duncan, where he is finally not called on to be the #1 option but be a good #2. And he did that roll well, as he is a great lob-threat, good floor-spacer, and quality passer.
Malone, was a better #1 option, but one could very well argue the Utah offenses and his play were underwhelming enough, such that his appeal as a #1 option is not enough to take over Robinson here. In general, that 94-96 period people are talking about, Malone averaged about 3 more points per 75 (inflation adjusted) on similar efficiency.
I think if you believe there it are plenty of decent #1 in the league to pair with Robinson, he is the ideal choice. I feel like I don't necessarily love the idea of Malone as a #1 either, but Robinson brings so much value in that #2 role when he can play off someone.
