Magic Johnson Pays Homage to Rockets Legend Robert Reid

"I’m deeply saddened by the news that my friend Robert Reid passed away today — Robert was a fierce competitor for the Houston Rockets and one of the best defensive players the league has ever seen," Johnson said via Twitter. 

"He was always a good host when I visited Houston, and we shared many meals together over the years. He was a great person, and this is a tough loss for his family, our NBA family, and guys like me, his friends. Cookie and I are praying for the entire Reid family, friends, and the NBA family during this difficult time."

The Rockets drafted Reid in the second round (no. 40 pick) of the 1977 NBA Draft. He went on to play 10 seasons for the franchise on two separate occasions. Each time, Reid helped the Rockets reach the NBA Finals, where they fell to the Boston Celtics in 1981 and 1986.

Trips to the Finals resulted from the Rockets defeating Johnson and the Lakers. They sent Los Angeles home in the first round of the 1981 playoffs (2-1). Five years later, Reid and the Rockets defeated the Lakers again during a memorable battle during the 1986 Western Conference Finals (4-1).

Following his decade run with the Rockets, Reid ranks top-10 in franchise history, including eighth in points (8,823), eighth in rebounding (3,706) and ninth in blocks (364).

In addition to the Rockets, Reid finished his career playing for the Charlotte Hornets, Portland Trail Blazers and Philadelphia 76ers.

"It is with great sorrow that my family and I received the news of the passing of Rockets legend, Robert Reid," Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta said in a statement. "I have had the privilege of knowing Robert for over 40 years, and his presence always brought joy and positivity to any room he entered."

"It is with great sorrow that my family and I received the news of the passing of Rockets legend, Robert Reid. I have had the privilege of knowing Robert for over 40 years, and his presence always brought joy and positivity to any room he entered."