The Houston Rockets will be without a key frontcourt presence for the foreseeable future after center Steven Adams suffered a significant ankle injury, head coach Ime Udoka confirmed.
“Severely sprained ankle,” Udoka said. “I think [it’s] a Grade 3 or so, but still gathering information, opinions. But I don’t think he’ll be back anytime soon.”
The injury occurred Sunday against the New Orleans Pelicans, when Adams landed awkwardly while contesting a shot at the rim from Zion Williamson.
The play immediately raised concern, and further evaluation revealed the severity of the sprain.
At 32 years old, Adams has played a steady role in Houston’s rotation this season, providing physicality and rebounding off the bench.
He is averaging 5.8 points and 8.6 rebounds in 22.8 minutes per game, anchoring second units and helping control the glass.
Despite the setback, the Rockets have been one of the league’s strongest rebounding teams, currently leading the NBA with 49.2 rebounds per game.
Steven Adams Out Indefinitely With 'Severly' Sprained Ankle https://t.co/wJgqN46OMR
— RealGM (@RealGM) January 21, 2026
