Adams adds interior presence and screen-setting to stabilize the frontcourt. His presence helps defense and rebounding while Sengun and Durant operate with more space and easier interior access.

Adams anchored the rim in a double-big look with Capela, serving as a lob target and hustle engine. His presence stabilizes the interior, providing a defensive backbone and easy scoring opportunities through screens and dump-offs.

<p>Adams’ knee surgery anniversary shapes the early-season plan, likely limiting back-to-back appearances and increasing Capela’s responsibility as traditional center. His presence supports a steady frontcourt rotation that buffers capricious minutes around Capela and Sengün.</p><p>This dynamic underscores Capela’s increased value in a regime prioritizing rim protection and physicality as the Rockets navigate the start of Udoka’s era.</p>

Adams will play Monday vs. Atlanta but rest Wednesday vs. Utah as a precaution after last season’s injuries. His veteran presence anchors the frontcourt and will be tested in lineups that mix Sengün with young wings, while the Rockets assess size and screening efficiency.

Adams anchors the Rockets’ jumbo front, delivering rebounding, defense, and interior discipline. His presence unlocks aggressive, size-based schemes and can stabilize late-clock contains, while his offensive role centers on finishing and screen-based actions in crowded paint areas.