The Houston Rockets are making moves to solidify their roster as they aim to build on their promising 2024-25 season.
Coming off a 52-30 record and No. 2 seed, the team has prioritized locking in a pivotal frontcourt piece ahead of free agency.
On Saturday, the Rockets finalized a significant contract extension, ensuring a cornerstone of their rotation remains in Houston for years to come.
ESPN’s Shams Charania broke the news on X, detailing the agreement: “Just In: Houston Rockets center Steven Adams has agreed to a three-year, $39 million contract extension to stay with the franchise, sources tell ESPN. After playing a key rotation and leadership role in the Rockets’ playoff run, the new deal keeps a top center out of free agency.”
“Adams played 58 games after missing the 2023-24 season, and averaged 22.1 minutes in the playoffs in a critical role for a team that was +44 with him on the floor versus -44 without,” Charania continued.
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“Adams led the NBA in offensive rebounding percentage this season as well, per ESPN Research.”
After missing the entire 2023-24 season due to a knee injury, Adams returned to form this season, playing 58 regular-season games and averaging 5.6 rebounds in 13.7 minutes per game. His postseason performance was even more critical, as he logged 22.1 minutes per game in a seven-game series against the Golden State Warriors, contributing 5.7 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks while shooting 60% from the field.
Adams’ dominance on the offensive glass sets the tone for Houston’s physical style, and it’s no surprise that the Rockets’ front office made him a priority.
The three-year, $39 million deal, fully guaranteed through 2028, shows Houston’s commitment to continuity as they transition into a win-now contender. By securing Adams before he hit free agency, where teams like the Los Angeles Lakers would have expressed interest, the Rockets avoided a bidding war for one of the market’s top centers.
With Adams locked in, Houston can focus on other offseason decisions, such as Fred VanVleet’s $44.9 million team option and potential trades involving their No. 10 draft pick.
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