NBA Free Agency: Steven Adams Agrees To $39M Extension With Rockets

James

3 min read

Post on Jun 15, 2025

4.9

Share

NBA Free Agency: Steven Adams Inks $39M Extension with Houston Rockets

The Houston Rockets have made a significant move to bolster their frontcourt, agreeing to a three-year, $39 million contract extension with veteran center Steven Adams, sources confirmed to ESPN on Tuesday. This surprising deal solidifies Adams' role in Houston's rebuild and signifies a commitment to a more physical, defensively-minded approach. The news sent ripples throughout the NBA, as many speculated on where the rugged Kiwi would land this offseason.

This extension comes after a season where Adams averaged 8.6 points and 9.1 rebounds per game for the Memphis Grizzlies, showcasing his consistent rebounding prowess and impactful defensive presence. While his offensive game isn't flashy, his screen setting, rebounding, and defensive tenacity make him a valuable asset for any team, particularly one looking to establish a strong interior presence.

Adams' Impact on the Rockets' Future

The addition of Adams significantly alters the Rockets' outlook for the upcoming season. The team, currently undergoing a significant rebuild focused on young talent, gains a seasoned veteran who can mentor younger players and provide immediate on-court impact. His experience and leadership will be invaluable in guiding the development of promising players like Alperen Şengün, who will benefit greatly from Adams' mentorship and on-court collaboration.

Key benefits of the Adams signing for the Rockets:

• Improved Interior Defense: Adams is known for his strong defensive presence and rebounding ability, which addresses a key weakness for the Rockets.
• Veteran Leadership: His experience and leadership qualities provide invaluable guidance to the Rockets' young roster.
• Strong Screen Setting: Adams’ exceptional screen setting will create more opportunities for Houston’s guards.
• Enhanced Rebounding: His consistent rebounding prowess will significantly improve the Rockets' overall rebounding numbers.

The Rockets' Rebuilding Strategy

This signing aligns perfectly with the Rockets' long-term strategy. By focusing on adding impactful veterans alongside their young core, they are aiming for a quicker turnaround than many anticipated. This isn't just about winning games immediately; it's about building a winning culture and developing young talent under the guidance of experienced players.

The front office clearly sees Adams as a crucial part of this foundation. His contract reflects a commitment to building a team with a strong interior game and a more physical playing style, a shift away from the Rockets' previous emphasis on three-point shooting.

What's Next for the Rockets?

With the Adams extension finalized, the Rockets can now shift their focus to other aspects of their offseason plans. They'll likely continue to explore free agency and the trade market to further enhance their roster. Expect to see them prioritize adding talent that complements Adams' style of play and continues the team’s growth.

This move by the Rockets is a bold statement, suggesting a more aggressive timeline for their rebuild than many analysts predicted. The addition of Steven Adams significantly improves their prospects for the upcoming season and beyond. The NBA offseason is far from over, and the Rockets are clearly making their mark.

Stay tuned for more updates on NBA free agency and the Houston Rockets' offseason moves!