The Houston Rockets are flying high after a fifth consecutive victory, defeating the Memphis Grizzlies 124–109 on Wednesday night. Yet, one key piece of their frontcourt rotation was missing: Steven Adams, who sat out for the first time this season due to a lingering hip issue.
Now, as Houston prepares for a high-profile matchup against the San Antonio Spurs on Friday, November 7, the question remains: when will Adams be back on the floor?
When Will Steven Adams Return to the Rockets Lineup?
The Rockets listed Adams as out against Memphis due to hip flexor tightness, an injury the team has chosen to treat conservatively. While it’s not believed to be serious, Adams’ medical history naturally raises concern.
After missing the entire 2023–24 season and playing only 58 games last year, the 32-year-old center entered this campaign under a monitored workload. Houston knew his availability would need to be managed carefully, especially given his physical playing style and critical role in the Rockets’ system.
Adams is being evaluated day-to-day, and the staff should decide on his availability against the Spurs closer to game time. Given that matchup features Victor Wembanyama, one of the league’s most imposing frontcourt talents, Houston would certainly prefer to have Adams back anchoring the paint.
Why Adams Matters So Much to Houston
Adams’ value to the Rockets goes far beyond the box score. In 22.5 minutes per game, he’s averaging 9.5 rebounds, including an NBA-best 5.0 on the offensive glass. His dominance on the boards has been a defining factor behind Houston’s early-season success.
When paired with Alperen Sengun, the Rockets have become a rebounding powerhouse. Their “double-big” lineup was one of the most effective in the NBA late last season, and through the first few weeks of 2025–26, it has helped Houston rank at the top of the league in second-chance points and offensive efficiency.
Without Adams on Wednesday, Houston still managed to outrebound Memphis 54–47, largely thanks to Sengun’s 16 rebounds and Clint Capela’s defensive presence. But it’s clear that Adams brings a physicality few players can replicate.
His screens free up drivers like Amen Thompson, his positioning collapses defenses, and his rebounding gives the Rockets additional possessions that often decide close games.
Rockets Eye Spurs Showdown
The upcoming game against San Antonio adds an extra layer of intrigue. The Spurs, currently 5–2, are off to a surprising start led by Wembanyama’s two-way dominance. Friday’s matchup will also mark the start of the Emirates NBA Cup 2025 for both teams, making it one of Houston’s most important early-season contests.
Facing the Spurs without Adams would present a significant challenge. Houston’s size advantage has been a major strength this year, and Adams’ absence limits Udoka’s flexibility in countering San Antonio’s length and rim protection.
While Capela and Jabari Smith Jr. have filled the void admirably, Adams’ return would help the Rockets sustain their identity as one of the league’s toughest interior teams.
What’s Next for Adams and Houston
For now, all signs point to the Rockets exercising caution. Adams’ recovery will depend on how his hip responds to treatment in the next 24 hours, but early indications suggest the team is optimistic about a short-term absence rather than an extended one.
Given Houston’s hot start, and the importance of maintaining frontcourt health deep into the season, Udoka and his staff are unlikely to rush Adams back before he’s fully ready.
If he misses Friday’s game, the Rockets will likely reassess over the weekend, targeting a return during their next homestand.
Either way, Houston has shown it can win without him. But make no mistake: with Steven Adams back in the lineup, the Rockets’ ceiling climbs even higher.
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