Steven Adams operated on: season over for Rockets center

Steven Adams will not play again this season. The New Zealand center for the Houston Rockets underwent surgery on his left ankle Wednesday, definitively ending his 2025-2026 campaign. This news represents another major blow for a team already without its starting point guard Fred VanVleet.

The injury dates back to January 18th, during the victory against the New Orleans Pelicans. While attempting to contest a shot by Zion Williamson near the basket, Adams (7’0″, 32 years old) landed very badly on his left ankle after jumping to defend the play. He immediately grabbed his ankle before collapsing to the floor, requiring assistance to return to the locker room.

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A major impact on the Rockets’ rebounding dominance

Initially diagnosed as a severe grade 3 sprain by coach Ime Udoka, the injury ultimately required surgical intervention. Adams had played 32 games this season, including 11 as a starter, averaging 5.8 points and 8.6 rebounds in 22.8 minutes per game.

Beyond the statistics, the veteran represented a crucial element of the Rockets’ system, NBA leaders in rebounding with 49 per game. Adams particularly excelled in offensive rebounding with 4.5 per game, directly contributing to Houston’s 40.6% offensive rebound rate, the league’s best. In the four games played without him, this percentage dropped to 35%.

PLAYER PROFILE

Steven ADAMS

Position(s): Center

Height: 211 cm

Age: 32 years (07/20/1993)

Nationality:

Stats 2025-2026 / NBA

PTS

5.8

#303

REB

8.6

#26

AST

1.5

#249

Adams’ absence also deprives the Rockets of significant defensive impact and physical presence. The team has a differential of +11.2 points when the New Zealander is on the court. To compensate for this loss, Udoka is expected to give more playing time to Clint Capela as Alperen Sengun’s backup, while using Jabari Smith Jr. more at the 5 position in smaller lineups.

Despite these major absences, Houston maintains an impressive record of 28 wins and 16 losses, occupying fourth place in the Western Conference just two games behind second place. Management could explore the trade market before the deadline to strengthen the frontcourt.

Houston Rockets center Steven Adams has undergone season-ending surgery on his left ankle, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/IG15RAPxQH

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) January 28, 2026