Steven Adams Dominates the Glass as LeBron Highlights Teamwork Needed to Contain Him
Steven Adams has emerged as an undeniable force on the offensive boards, leaving an indelible mark on the NBA landscape. The Houston Rockets’ reserve center is akin to the legendary NFL receiver Calvin “Megatron” Johnson in the red zone—reliable and nearly unstoppable. This analogy may seem exaggerated, yet Adams is securing one offensive rebound for every four attempts, a feat that is unprecedented in modern basketball.
Rockets’ Rebounding Prowess
The Rockets have consistently ranked at the top in offensive rebounding over the last two seasons, and their ability to capitalize on second-chance points exemplifies how their strategy operates like a cheat code. More offensive rebounds translate to more scoring opportunities, a formula that Adams has mastered. His strength and positioning make him a challenge to box out, a sentiment echoed by none other than LeBron James.
During a conversation on the Mind the Game podcast with Hall of Fame guard Steve Nash, James shared insights about the struggle of limiting Adams’ impact on the boards. “You know as a competitor, you know as an opposing team that when you play Houston, one of the main focuses is Steven Adams. You need the whole team, plus the bench and the coaching staff and your security team to box him out. Oh my God, he’s ridiculously strong. You can’t box him out with two people. You need 3 or 4 guys around him,” James admitted, underscoring the magnitude of Adams’ presence on the court.
Leading the League in Offensive Rebounds
Adams currently leads the NBA with an impressive average of 4.8 offensive rebounds per game, a mark that, while remarkable, is not even his career-high. His previous peaks of 5.1 offensive rebounds per game have established him as a perennial leader in this vital statistic. Nash pointed out how Adams’ ability to draw multiple defenders creates space for his teammates, allowing them to capitalize on the offensive glass as well.
Initially, the Rockets experimented with a double-big lineup featuring Adams alongside Alperen Sengun, a move that garnered considerable attention. However, Adams has started only five games this season, a decision that reflects the Rockets’ strategy to manage his health and energy levels as they aim for a deep playoff run. Presently, they sit in fourth place in the Western Conference standings.
Adams’ Impact and Performance
In his limited playing time, Adams has averaged 21.8 minutes per game, contributing 6.6 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 1.5 assists, while shooting an efficient 53.3 percent from the field. His ability to secure offensive rebounds remains a cornerstone of the Rockets’ strategy, illustrating how one player’s prowess can significantly influence team dynamics and overall performance.
As the Rockets continue their push towards the postseason, the emphasis on maintaining Adams’ health will be pivotal. His unique talents not only elevate his own game but also enhance the performance of those around him, making him a vital piece in Houston’s championship aspirations.
