The Houston Rockets have made one of the biggest moves of the offseason, and free agency hasn't even started. The team has signed veteran center Steven Adams to a new three-year, $39 million contract extension to keep him off the open market.
Adams was scheduled to become a free agent and was being linked to multiple teams. ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania reported the news on social media.
"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."
This is a huge move from the Rockets and ensures that one of the more crucial pieces top the roster stays in town. Adams helped Houston clinch the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference this past season, and the team valued his leadership all year.
Many around the NBA believed that Adams could depart the Rockets this summer, but Houston got their guy. Adams was believed to be a target of a team like the Los Angeles Lakers, but he will now remain with the Rockets.
More NBA news:Surprising East Team Has Reportedly Entered Kevin Durant Trade Sweepstakes
Adams only averaged 3.9 points, 5.7 rebounds, 1.2 assists, and 0.5 blocks per game last season. But his impact when he was on the floor was apparent. Houston is building something special, and Adams has been an integral part of the rebuild.
The Rockets have been rumored to be looking at multiple different team upgrades this offseason after falling short in the playoffs. Different reports have them engaged in trade talks for stars Kevin Durant of the Phoenix Suns and Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks.
Houston is likely seeing an opening to real title contention and will be looking to take full advantage. The Rockets have plenty of young players on the roster, as well as multiple draft picks that they can use in potential deals.
It remains to be seen how the offseason for the Rockets will play out, but the front office seems very active. Houston wants to build sustained success for a long time, and this move to keep Adams around seems like just the start.
More NBA news:
Kevin Durant Trade Reportedly Down to Three Teams, Timeline Revealed
Top Landing Spots For Russell Westbrook After Nuggets News
NBA Champion Says Timberwolves Should Target This Anthony Edwards Co-Star
For more on the Rockets and general NBA news, head on over to Newsweek Sports.
Related Articles
Rockets, Spurs Linked to Draft Trade Amid Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kevin Durant Rumors
Former NBA Lottery Pick Joining Rockets in Surprising Role: Report
Rockets Young Star Named 'Untouchable' Amid Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade Rumors
Bucks May Not Want Rockets Star in Potential Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade: Report
2025 NEWSWEEK DIGITAL LLC.
This story was originally published June 14, 2025 at 1:36 PM.