I'm just curious on what you all think will be required for the Rockets to gain respect in the eyes of the media and fanbases outside the Rockets. It could be anything from simply winning games against the best teams in the league; making the finals; gaining that 3rd star; getting rid of the players with bad reputations (aka. Howard and to some extend Harden).
Howard, Harden, and Beverley are some of the most disliked players in the league. Even if they win a championship they will still be disliked. People do not respect the Rockets style of play. The don't like the way Harden draws fouls. They just don't like Howard period. There is nothing the Rockets can do that will make other people like them. Winning a championship would probably piss people off even more. Frankly, I don't care if the media or other fans dislike the Rockets. The Rockets are that team that everyone else hates. That's who they are.
Respect and likability aren't really the same thing. Bad Boys come to mind here. Nobody outside Detroit really liked them... but they definitely earned respect after back-to-back titles.
OK, then I don't think the Rockets would be respected, even if they win a championship. People don't respect our players, because of the way they play. People think Harden is a flopper. People think Beverley is a cheap shot artist. And people just don't respect Howard period. So, even if we win a championship. I don't see people liking or respecting us.
Fair enough. I actually agree with you, and that's why winning a ring would be that much sweeter. To hell with NBA fans and the national media.