The Houston Rockets made a move to address their need for a backup center by acquiring veteran Steven Adams from the Memphis Grizzlies. However, Rockets fans will have to wait until the 2024-2025 season to see Adams in action, as he is currently recovering from knee surgery.
In exchange for Adams, the Rockets sent three second-round draft picks and Victor Oladipo's expiring contract to the Grizzlies. This trade not only strengthens the Rockets' bench heading into next season, but also allows the Grizzlies to shed Adams' salary from their books in the upcoming season.
Houston had been relying on 37-year-old Jeff Green to fill the backup center role, but it was clear that the team needed a physical presence off the bench. Adams, known for his toughness and rebounding skills, fits the bill perfectly. He will provide valuable support to starter Alperen Sengun, who has impressed as the Rockets' starting center this season.
This move suggests that the Rockets' front office may take a patient approach for the rest of the season, rather than aggressively pursuing a playoff spot. However, the team still possesses appealing assets such as expiring contracts and future draft picks, which could be used to make significant moves in the upcoming offseason.
With the addition of Adams, the Rockets' total cap allocation for the season stands at $146.4 million, comfortably below the luxury tax threshold. This leaves room for key decisions in the future, including contract extensions for Sengun and Jalen Green, who will both be eligible for extensions this offseason.
Overall, the acquisition of Steven Adams strengthens the Rockets' roster and addresses their need for a backup center. While fans will have to wait for Adams to recover before seeing him on the court, his presence next season should greatly benefit the team. Rockets fans can look forward to an exciting future as the team continues to build and develop its young core.
