So far this season, Houston has had numerous contributors all across their roster. You have the emergence of Amen Thompson and the continued growth of Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun. However, when fans and media alike mention key parts of this Houston Rockets team, often an important name is left out. Who’s this key contributor some wonder? Well, the player I am refering to is none other than Houston Rockets center Steven Adams.
Adams was traded to Houston from Memphis on Feburary 2, 2024 for shooting guard Victor Oladipo and three future second round picks. Adams had recently undergone surgery for a torn PCL, and would remained sidelined until October.
For much of the early stages this season, the Adams aquisiton seemed questionable at best, as Adams was unable to play more than one to two games a week. Even when Adams was playing, he was more of a negitave factor to the Rockets than anything. However, In his last 10 games, Adams is averaging 4.0 points (59.1% FG), 7.0 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks in 14.0 minutes. The Rockets are 8-2 over that stretch, which has included several wins over good opponents such as the Cleveland Cavaliers (twice), Memphis Grizzlies (twice), Denver Nuggets, and Boston Celtics
There are two games that most stand out from this stretch. Both of these games came against the Cleveland Cavailers. In the first matchup, Adams recorded a season high 11 rebounds, and during the second matchup, Adams scored a season high 14 points. During the second matchup, Cleaveland tried fouling Adams as Adams was shooting sub 40 percent from the line. However, in the nine times Adam was sent to the line, he converted on six of them, and after one of his misses, Cleveland puts two defenders on Adams, which allows Jae’Sean Tate to grab the offensive rebound.
Cavs throw two bodies at the Steven Adams boxout leaving a pocket for Tate to steal the offensive rebound off the missed FT
A four-point possession to go up 13 late in the third quarter
Perfect example of detail that often goes unnoticed but doesn’t happen without Adams pic.twitter.com/lSKLavPQSD
— Steven Adams Stats (@funakistats) January 26, 2025
It is safe to say without Adams, Houston would likely have lost some of these most recent games, which proves his importance to the team. Adams might not be the flashiest, and he might not get a lot of media attention these days (which I’m sure he doesn’t mind), but as the Rockets head towards the post season for the first time in years, the Rockets are going to need Adams at his best. After a slow start to the season, he’s hitting his stride
Steven Adams has been a key player for the Houston Rockets this season, and his recent performances have shown that he is hitting his stride with the team. Adams, who was acquired in a trade with the New Orleans Pelicans earlier this year, has quickly become a fan favorite with his tenacious defense and strong rebounding.
In the last few games, Adams has been a force to be reckoned with on both ends of the court. His ability to protect the rim and grab key rebounds has been crucial for the Rockets, who have been struggling with injuries to key players.
Adams’ presence in the paint has also opened up opportunities for his teammates on offense, as his screens and post presence have created space for shooters to get open looks. His chemistry with fellow big man Christian Wood has been particularly impressive, as the two have formed a formidable frontcourt duo for the Rockets.
With Adams hitting his stride and playing at a high level, the Rockets look poised to make a push for the playoffs in the competitive Western Conference. His energy and physicality have provided a much-needed boost for the team, and his contributions on both ends of the court will be key as the season progresses.
Overall, Steven Adams has been a valuable addition to the Rockets roster, and his recent performances show that he is settling in and finding his groove with his new team. Fans can expect to see more impactful plays from Adams as he continues to make his mark in Houston.
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