3 Houston Rockets Greats That Don't Get Enough Respect
By Tyler Kemp
The Houston Rockets have overseen a number of success dating back to their fledgling San Diego days with the great Elvin Hayes. Once they came to Houston, they became a solidified force name in the league. Players like Hakeem Olajuwon, Clyde Drexler and future Hall of Famer James Harden are rightly recognized as some of the best to ever do it in H-Town, but there are a few Rockets greats that do not get as much respect as they deserve.
3. Tracy McGrady
McGrady is a Hall of Famer and one of the best pure scorers we've ever seen. The only thing that kept T-Mac down in his career? He was subjected to a series of mediocre teams in his prime and a bad stretch of injuries. When he was playing in Houston, he was an All-NBA-caliber player who gave everyone buckets on a nightly basis. Had he stayed healthy in Houston, he would have received much more credit as one of the best of his era.
2. Calvin Murphy
The first great little man, 5-foot-9 Calvin Murphy became the shortest player ever inducted into the Hall. He averaged close to 18 points per game throughout his 14-year career, and was one of the players who helped to put the Rockets on the map during the 70’s and 80’s. With the help of the next player on this list, Murphy created one of the most underrated duos to hit the hardwood.
1. Moses Malone
The late, great Moses Malone’s time in Houston will never be forgotten. In H-Town, he averaged 24 points and 15 boards, won two MVPs, made multiple All-NBA teams and led Houston to its first-ever NBA Finals. Being that he only has one championship, which came during his time in Philadelphia, Malone is often lost in the conversation of greatest big men ever. Basketball historians recognize that Malone is truly one of the best to ever do it, and he fully deserves his due.