Rockets center Steven Adams has been diagnosed with a Grade 3 left ankle sprain and is out indefinitely, head coach Ime Udoka told reporters on Tuesday (Twitter link via Will Guillory of The Athletic).
According to the Cleveland Clinic, a Grade 3 ankle sprain is when the ligament is completely torn. It’s the most severe ankle sprain and involves significant swelling and pain.
While it’s unclear how much time Adams will miss, he’s likely facing a lengthy absence. The Clinic’s entry indicates that severe sprains can take anywhere from six-to-12 weeks to heal, and Adams would have to get back into shape once he has recovered.
The 32-year-old big man suffered the injury in the fourth quarter of Sunday’s win over New Orleans. He rolled his ankle contesting a Zion Williamson layup and was immediately in a great deal of pain (YouTube link). Adams had to be helped off the court with assistance.
It’s a tough setback for Adams, who has missed extended time in recent years due to a knee injury which cost him the entire 2023/24 season. The New Zealand native has made has made 32 appearances this season, averaging 5.8 points and 8.6 rebounds — including a league-high 4.5 offensive boards — in 22.8 minutes per game.
The Rockets will certainly miss Adams’ presence in the lineup. They have a +11.8 net rating when he’s on the court, compared to a +3.4 mark when he’s not playing.
Clint Capela is the most obvious candidate for more playing time with Adams out. Udoka could also opt to run Jabari Smith Jr. in the middle when Alperen Sengun is resting.
On a brighter note for Houston, fourth-year forward Tari Eason will return to action on Tuesday after missing the past five games due to a right ankle sprain, per Guillory.