Steven Adams aims for impact after injury rehabilitation
Wednesday 23 September 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated In this story Steven Adams
The 33-year-old New Zealander has completed a long rehabilitation process following several seasons of knee and ankle injuries. Adams spoke during media day for the Houston Rockets about his recovery and expressed readiness for the upcoming NBA season.
Key facts
4 facts
- Steven Adams is 33 years old.
- Adams missed the entire 2023-24 season due to knee surgery.
- Adams played 32 games for the Rockets last season before ankle surgery.
- The Rockets season opener is against the Dallas Mavericks on 22 October NZT.
The full story
1 min read · 2 outlets
New Zealander Steven Adams has completed a long and gruelling rehabilitation process following recent knee and ankle injuries. The 33-year-old big man expressed confidence during a media day in Houston that he is ready for the 2026-27 NBA season.
Adams' recent playing time was limited by various medical issues, including a knee injury that caused him to miss the entire 2023-24 season while with the Memphis Grizzlies. Last season, he played only 32 games for the Rockets before ankle surgery ended his involvement.
“It was a bloody ankle injury. There’s a lot of bones down there, mate,” Adams said regarding his recovery. He noted that the process involved retraining his body to move freely and finding enjoyment in the small details of rehabilitation.
The Rockets expect a retooled roster for the upcoming season, which includes the return of star point guard Fred VanVleet. VanVleet missed the previous campaign due to a torn ACL and is expected to play in the season opener against the Dallas Mavericks on 22 October NZT.
Where reports differ
- One report states Adams missed 24 games for the Rockets in the 2024-25 season, while another report says he missed a major chunk of the 2025-26 season due to his ankle injury.
Compiled from reports by The Post and Stuff.