Houston Rockets: The top 30 Rockets players of all time
By T.A. Mock
4. Elvin Hayes, C/PF, 1968 – 1972, 1981 – 1984
Hayes was a first overall pick with the San Diego Rockets and ushered in the Houston Rockets era as well. He played seven full seasons with the Rockets across three different decades. During those seven years, he only missed two games. That is simply incredible, he also only missed nine games total in his career.
His first stint with the Rockets he averaged 27.4 points and 16.3 rebounds per game. His second stint was worse but, he was also much older. He averaged 11.3 points and 6.7 rebounds. Hayes was one of the best and most reliable players to ever put on a Rockets uniform. He is also a Hall of Famer.
3. James Harden, SG/PG, 2012 – Present
This may be controversial but, Harden is without a doubt in the top three Houston Rockets of all time. He sped up what was sure to be a long, strenuous rebuild. Somehow, Daryl Morey netted Harden from nothing but spare parts. Ever since then, he’s been lighting the NBA on fire.
The 2017-18 MVP has averaged 28 points, 8 assists, and 6 rebounds during his six years as a Rocket. He was also the scoring champ this past year. Additionally, he has been selected to the All-NBA team for the past five seasons. He hasn’t won a championship yet but, he did lead the team to their best record in history.