Steven Adams out indefinitely for Rockets after ankle injury

The Houston Rockets will have to do without Steven Adams for an indefinite period. The 32-year-old center is suffering from a left ankle sprain sustained Sunday during the victory against the New Orleans Pelicans, as confirmed by coach Ime Udoka before the 111-106 win over the Spurs Tuesday night.

A severe injury occurred against the Pelicans

« Severe ankle sprain, » Udoka said. « I think it’s about a grade 3 injury, but we’re still gathering information and opinions. But I don’t think he’ll be back anytime soon. »

The injury occurred when Adams was defending Zion Williamson near the basket. While sliding to help Alperen Sengun defend the Pelicans’ power forward, Adams jumped to contest a shot and immediately grabbed his left ankle upon landing.

Udoka had specified after the game that there was « already a lot of swelling, but nothing is broken, » adding that the injury was « not a high ankle sprain. »

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This absence deprives Houston of an important element of its interior rotation. Adams averages 5.8 points and 8.6 rebounds in 22.8 minutes per game for a Rockets team that leads the NBA in rebounding with 49.2 per game.

Grade 3 ankle sprains can take 3-6 months to heal completely….

We may not see Steven Adams again this season. https://t.co/5YBwLvmKhm pic.twitter.com/ZI6NBnPu5F

— Bradeaux (@BradeauxNBA) January 20, 2026

Clint Capela, third center in the hierarchy, now becomes the primary backup for Alperen Sengun. Houston is also expected to use Jabari Smith Jr. at center in certain lineup configurations.

In other infirmary news, Tari Eason made his return in Tuesday’s victory, scoring 2 points in 20 minutes. The forward had missed the Rockets’ last five games due to a right ankle sprain.