Steven Adams Contract Reportedly 'Top Priority' for Rockets in FA amid NBA Rumors

The Houston Rockets have one of the best young cores in the NBA, but they're reportedly hoping to retain a key veteran presence on their roster.

According to The Athletic's Kelly Iko, a new contract for impending free agent Steven Adams "is arguably Houston’s top priority" this offseason. The 31-year-old center will join forwards Jeff Green and Jae'Sean Tate as unrestricted free agents starting on June 30, but team sources told Iko that Adams "is seen as the clear priority."

Adams recovered from a knee injury that cost him the entire 2023-24 season and appeared in 58 games this past year. While his averages of 3.9 points, 5.6 rebounds and 1.1 assists were modest, Iko noted that he became "a critical part of [head coach Ime Udoka’s] late-season rotation."

Unfortunately for Houston, there will be significant competition for Adams' services this summer. Iko explained that "because of his two-way production, particularly his elite offensive rebounding, the possibility of Adams being lured away by a playoff team exists."

He described Adams as "a natural fit" for teams like the San Antonio Spurs, New York Knicks, Indiana Pacers, Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers.

However, it sounds like there's mutual interest for a reunion between Adams and the Rockets, as Iko pointed out that they "are operating under the assumption Adams wants to return — and will continue to speak with his representation about a possible extension."