Houston Rockets’ Steven Adams Reigns Supreme as Rebounding King
The Houston Rockets’ decision to trade for Steven Adams in 2024 initially baffled many observers. This move seemed perplexing, a strategic maneuver that raised eyebrows across the league. To some, it appeared to be a way of postponing pressing financial decisions, particularly given the team’s recent asset management strategy leading up to Adams’ arrival.
In a significant shakeup, the Rockets parted ways with Kevin Porter Jr., who had recently inked a $63 million contract extension. Unfortunately, Porter’s off-court issues, including an alleged domestic violence incident, forced the Rockets to make a tough call. They traded him for Victor Oladipo, who was also recovering from an Achilles injury at the time. This decision was all about managing Porter’s $15.9 million salary, with hopes that Oladipo and his $9.5 million contract could be flipped for a player who could immediately contribute.
Ultimately, that player turned out to be Adams, though he also faced injury setbacks and was sidelined for the entire season. What set Adams apart was the additional year left on his contract, contrasting with Oladipo’s expiring deal. After a slow start to the 2024-25 season, Adams showcased his prowess once fully healthy, dominating the boards as he is known to do.
A New Dynamic in Houston
As the playoffs approached, Rockets coach Ime Udoka made a bold decision to implement a double-big lineup, pairing the star center Alperen Sengun with Adams. This new strategy paid off handsomely, as Houston consistently out-rebounded their opponents, topping the league in both offensive and total rebounds throughout the season. Remarkably, they even managed to outmuscle the Golden State Warriors in the postseason—no small feat.
Adams quickly solidified his status as a vital component of the starting lineup. Through the early part of the season, he emerged as the league leader in offensive rebounds, pulling down an impressive 4.8 per game. This ability to dominate the glass provided the Rockets with plentiful second-chance scoring opportunities, significantly enhancing their offensive efficiency.
Recognition for Remarkable Dominance
For his exceptional performance on the boards, Adams was awarded The Ringer’s Most Magisterial Mountain accolade. His rebounding prowess has earned him a reputation that resonates throughout the league. “You will root Steven Adams out from under the basket just as soon as hell freezes over,” one commentator noted. “If Adams is healthy and on your team, you’re most likely going to lead the league in offensive rebounding. He is the greatest offensive rebounder of his generation, one of the best in history.”
This sentiment reverberates with truth; Adams has consistently demonstrated his ability to clear the paint, often overpowering even the tallest defenders. He embodies a unique blend of strength and calmness under pressure, rarely letting the game rattle him. His rebounding skills have even been humorously likened to a feat of strength, suggesting that he could “box out three cows at once” or “a couple of horses.”
In his career spanning 12 seasons, Adams has seen his teams lead the league in offensive rebounds during nine of those years, including the last two seasons with the Rockets. As the season unfolds, fans and analysts alike will be keenly watching how Adams continues to impact the game and help reshape the Rockets’ fortunes on the court.
