NBA Rumors: Top 6 Landing Spots For Steven Adams This Summer
Steven Adams proved his worth in the playoffs with the Houston Rockets, and as he enters 2025 free agency, the veteran big man has plenty of appealing options to weigh.
Don’t let the modest stat line (5.7 PPG, 6.6 RPG) fool you—Adams was a force in Houston’s hard-fought series against the Warriors. His physicality, relentless rebounding, and defensive presence were game-changers, reminding the league that old-school centers still have a place in today’s NBA.
Now, at 31 years old and with over $160 million in career earnings, Adams faces a key decision: pursue one last lucrative contract or prioritize chasing a championship?
League sources indicate he’s open to both, seeking a balance between financial security and contention.
With that in mind, here are the six best fits for Adams in free agency—some offering big paydays, others providing a shot at a title.
1. Detroit Pistons
If Adams wants a final payday, Detroit could be the ideal destination. The Pistons, fresh off a 44-38 season and a competitive first-round series, need a veteran enforcer to solidify their frontcourt. With ample cap space and a young core led by Cade Cunningham and Jaden Ivey, Adams could step in as a culture-setter, bringing toughness and leadership.
Detroit could offer him a multi-year deal with starter money, giving him both financial security and a key role in their rebuild.
2. Houston Rockets
A return to Houston might be the best compromise—good money and a chance to contend. The Rockets are on the rise, with Alperen Şengün emerging as an All-Star and a young, hungry roster ready to take the next step.
Adams thrived in Ime Udoka’s system, proving his value as a playoff difference-maker. If he’s willing to accept a slight discount, staying put could mean another deep postseason run while still securing a solid contract.
3. San Antonio Spurs
The Spurs have cap space and a need for a bruising center to complement Victor Wembanyama. Adams could handle the dirty work—setting screens, battling in the paint, and mentoring the Spurs’ young core—while cashing in on a two- or three-year deal.
San Antonio may not be a contender yet, but they can offer Adams a well-paid, high-impact role as they build toward the future.
4. Boston Celtics
If a ring is the priority, Boston is the ultimate win-now destination. The Celtics could use Adams’ toughness off the bench, especially if Kristaps Porziņģis is moved. A mid-level exception deal would allow Adams to slot in as a defensive anchor, providing the physicality and playoff grit Boston needs.
Playing alongside Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown would give him his best shot at a championship.
5. Sacramento Kings
Sacramento presents an intriguing middle ground—competitive basketball with a solid paycheck. The Kings need a true defensive center to pair with Domantas Sabonis, and Adams fits perfectly.
His rebounding and interior presence would elevate their frontcourt, and the Kings have the cap flexibility to offer him a fair multi-year deal. While not a title favorite, Sacramento is a playoff-caliber team where Adams could play a major role.
6. Los Angeles Lakers
For Adams, joining the Lakers would mean sacrificing some money for a legitimate title shot. L.A. desperately needs a rugged big man to set screens, defend the paint, and clean the glass—areas where they struggled last season.
Playing alongside LeBron James and Luka Dončić, Adams could be the missing piece in a championship puzzle. A veteran-minimum or mid-level deal might be the cost, but the reward could be that elusive ring.
Adams has options—whether he prioritizes money, a starting role, or a title chase, the right fit is out there. Which path will he choose?
Image - Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn
