Is Karl Malone A-List?
NoB
No — Karl Malone is currently ranked B tier — a well-known figure with a strong career but not quite a household name.
Reached A-list in 1993
First MVP Award
Lost A-list status in 2003
Dropped to B tier — Lakers Stint
Ranking Timeline
1985D$0.1M
Drafted by Utah Jazz
Drafted into NBA; start of professional career.
1988B▲▲$1M+$0.9M
NBA All-Star Selection
Recognized among the league's elite players.
1993A▲$5M+$4M
First MVP Award
Recognized as league's most valuable player.
1997A$15M+$10M
NBA Finals Appearance
Led Jazz to the NBA Finals.
1999A$30M+$15M
Second MVP Award
Achieved further individual success.
2003B▼$60M+$30M
Lakers Stint
Joined the Lakers for championship attempt.
2004B$70M+$10M
Retirement from NBA
Retired as one of NBA's all-time leading scorers.
2026B$75M+$5M
NBA Legend
Remembered as one of the best power forwards.
Last updated: February 25, 2026