Houston Rockets center Steven Adams has been a significant part of the team’s 2025-26 NBA season. While he’s not their best offensive weapon, he has been a force on the defensive end. The Rockets have relied on Adams’ defensive presence and tenacity, especially when they opt to play in their frontcourt-heavy lineup. Unfortunately for Houston, the Kiwi big man went down with an apparent injury on Sunday against the New Orleans Pelicans.
Adams tried to contest a layup from star forward Zion Williamson. He came down on his left leg and immediately grabbed his left knee. The center stayed on the floor and couldn’t get up on his own. His teammate, veteran forward Jeff Green, assisted him to the locker room.
The Rockets center had five points and 10 rebounds against New Orleans.
Fans saw that Adams couldn’t put weight on his left leg. Watch the video below to see how the center was helped to the locker room.
Steven Adams appeared to suffer a leg injury and had to be helped to the locker room. Prayers up 🙏 pic.twitter.com/C9ZlOZffFY
— Basketball Forever (@bballforever_) January 19, 2026
Following that, fans were concerned about Adam’s state. Here are some of what the fans said.
“Hope he will be okay,” a fan said.
“Oh no, hope Adams is okay! 🙏” another fan commented.
“The landing looked very awkward, hopefully nothing too serious,” one fan said.
Other fans started imagining the worst for Steven Adams.
“Please don’t be an ACL tear..” someone commented.
“This Looks Scary,” a comment read.
“Ugh that looks bad. Hopefully not what we think it is,” one fan commented.
How has Steven Adams played for the Rockets this season?
Steven Adams has been a force in the frontcourt for the Rockets. He’s appeared in 31 games, averaging 5.9 points and 8.6 rebounds. He’s leading the league in offensive rebounds, with 4.5. He helps the Rockets control the boards with his strength underneath the basket.
Losing him to an unfortunate injury could affect the Rockets’ performance. He may not produce a lot when it comes to scoring, but Adams does execute his role to perfection for Houston.
For the latest Basketball Content
Follow me on X at @BarbecueBro, and follow us at @HardwoodHeroics. You can also reach out to Reign Amurao via email at reignamuraonba@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest sports news, click here!
