The Houston Rockets have lost center Steven Adams for the remainder of the season following surgery on his left ankle, as confirmed by Adams and first reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania. Adams sustained a severe ankle sprain during a game against the New Orleans Pelicans about ten days prior and had been sidelined since with a Grade 3 sprain, raising the possibility of surgery.
Adams’ Role and Impact on the Rockets’ Offense
Though Steven Adams’ individual scoring numbers—5.8 points per game—may appear modest, his contributions on the offensive glass are pivotal for Houston’s attacking strategy. Adams averages 4.5 offensive rebounds per contest, anchoring a Rockets team that leads the NBA by securing 40.6% of their missed shots offensively. This edge plays a significant part in Houston’s status as having the fourth-best offense in the league despite a middling 17th-ranked True Shooting Percentage. When Adams is on the court, the Rockets hold a +11.2 net rating, highlighting his importance.
Team Adjustments Following Adams’ Injury
In the four games played without Adams, the Rockets’ offensive rebounding rate has dropped to 35%, and their offense slid to 16th in the league during that stretch. Head coach Ime Udoka is expected to increase minutes for Clint Capela at center and experiment with small-ball lineups utilizing Jabari Smith Jr. in the five position. Additionally, Houston’s front office is likely to explore trade options for a center ahead of the upcoming trade deadline.
Significance and Outlook for the Rockets’ Season
The loss of Steven Adams represents a major setback to the Rockets’ frontcourt stability and overall offensive efficiency. His absence may challenge Houston’s ability to maintain its strong offensive numbers and playoff positioning in the competitive Western Conference. The team’s forthcoming decisions on lineups and potential roster moves will be critical in shaping their success for the remainder of the season.
“Looks like he already had the surgery.Via: Steven Adams IG pic.twitter.com/wNlwX1Urqx”
— Lachard Binkley, Analyst
Another significant injury for the Rockets, who are now down their starting point guard in Fred VanVleet and starter/reserve center Steven Adams. And still Houston has been among the top seeds, finds itself 28-16 and is now just two games out of the second place in the West. https://t.co/Ui38I3A8tW
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) January 28, 2026
Looks like he already had the surgery.
Via: Steven Adams IG pic.twitter.com/wNlwX1Urqx— Lachard Binkley (@BinkleyHoops) January 28, 2026
