Houston Rockets Issue Concerning Update on Steven Adams Injury

The Houston Rockets shared a troubling update on veteran center Steven Adams this week, signaling that his long-awaited return from knee surgery might be farther off than fans hoped. For a team looking to make a leap in the Western Conference, the news lands at a challenging moment.

Adams, acquired in the offseason to bring stability, experience, and interior toughness, has been rehabbing since undergoing surgery on his right knee last year. While the Rockets expected a steady recovery, recent comments from the organization suggest that progress has slowed. That uncertainty puts added pressure on a frontcourt already battling inconsistency.

Why Steven Adams’ Status Matters for the Rockets

Adams was projected to anchor Houston’s defense and provide some of the league’s best screen-setting for a young roster still building its identity. His presence would have offered guidance to players like Alperen Sengun and Jabari Smith Jr., while giving head coach Ime Udoka a reliable interior force.

Without Adams, the Rockets continue relying heavily on Sengun, who has taken a major step this season. Still, the lack of depth at center complicates pacing, rim protection, and matchups against bigger opponents. The team has rotated through small-ball lineups and short-term solutions, but none replace Adams’ physicality.

The update also arrives as Houston finds itself in the thick of the Western Conference race. Every game matters, and roster stability becomes crucial as spring approaches. Adams’ timeline remains unclear, which forces the front office to consider alternatives—whether internal adjustments or external moves.

What’s Next for Houston?

Until Adams returns, the Rockets must continue carving out ways to protect the paint and generate second-chance opportunities. Udoka’s defensive system has shown promise, but Adams was expected to be a foundational piece.

Houston fans know how influential a veteran anchor can be, especially with a young core that thrives on energy and structure. The hope remains that Adams’ recovery regains momentum, allowing him to return before the end of the season. But for now, the team is preparing for all possibilities.

Either way, the Rockets have shown resilience all year—this is simply the next test.

This article is a summary of reporting by Heavy Sports. Read the full story here.