Rockets Make Big Decision on Pending Free Agent Steven Adams

The Houston Rockets brought in Steven Adams two years ago even though he was set to miss the entire 2023-24 season with a PCL injury in his knee. There was obviously a method to their madness. Adams returned (debuted) this past season for the Rockets and slowly ramped up in the regular season, before playing a much more pivotal role in the playoffs.

They've now re-signed Adams ahead of his pending free agency, locking in the 31-year-old big man to a three-year, $39 million deal.

Just In: Houston Rockets center Steven Adams has agreed to a three-year, $39 million contract extension to stay with the franchise, sources tell ESPN. After playing a key rotation and leadership role in the Rockets' playoff run, the new deal keeps a top center out of free agency. pic.twitter.com/yWUnnQrRgh
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 14, 2025

The massive Rockets center truly wanted to stay in Houston, and the feeling was obviously mutual. His $13M per season is less than the full mid-level exception, but it seems to be a great fit for both sides.

Insider Shams Charania writes that Adams was "a significant priority for the Rockets after playing a key rotation and leadership role in Houston's first playoff run since 2020".

A huge part of Steven Adams taking a team-friendly deal, prior to free agency, is that every part of the organisation understands his impact on contending… front office, the young core and especially the fanbase

Best outcome possible as far as I’m concerned - gonna be a fun… https://t.co/wxnOnWq3wu
— Steven Adams Stats (@funakistats) June 14, 2025

The big man's impact in the playoffs was clearly evident whenever he was on the floor. The Rockets were plus-44 with Adams on the court against the Golden State Warriors and minus-44 with him on the bench.