16 Players the Houston Rockets gave up on way too soon

8. Robert Horry

The Rockets selected Horry with the 11th overall pick in the 1992 draft, and he immediately became a starter and key contributor. The 6’10 forward helped the Rockets win back-to-back championships in 1994 and 1995. Horry had a versatile skill set that got more dynamic as his shooting improved. He made an impact on both ends of the floor and was the role player every title team needs.

The Rockets gave up Horry, Sam Cassell, and two other role players for Charles Barkley in 1996. Houston was not eager to part with the 6’10 forward, but they could not pass up the chance to get an all-time great as they looked to stay in the title chase.

Horry was traded to the Suns where he lasted just five months before being shipped to Los Angeles. An on-court altercation with head coach Danny Ainge prompted the move. He arrived in 1997 and was part of the Lakers' three-peat with Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal. Horry was an impactful role player for six and a half seasons before heading to San Antonio. He won two more championships with the Spurs to push his ring total to seven.

Robert Horry played 16 years in the NBA and was one of the league’s best role players. The Houston Rockets do not regret the Charles Barkley trade, but Horry made them wish he was not involved in the deal as he won five championships after leaving Space City.