Rockets’ Steven Adams undergoes surgery that will end his season.

Houston Rockets center Steven Adams has had surgery on his left ankle that will end his season, sources informed ESPN’s Shams Charania on Wednesday.

Adams, 32, sustained the injury during a January 18 win against the New Orleans Pelicans while defending Zion Williamson at the basket. He moved to assist Alperen Sengun in guarding Williamson, leaping to challenge a shot from the Pelicans forward and immediately reached for his left ankle upon landing.

Adams is currently averaging 5.8 points and 8.6 rebounds in 22.8 minutes for a Rockets squad that ranks first in the NBA in rebounding (49 per game). No. 3 center Clint Capela has stepped in as the main backup behind Sengun, and it is probable that Houston will also utilize forward Jabari Smith Jr. at center in various lineups.

This marks another major injury for the Rockets, who are also without starting point guard Fred VanVleet. Nevertheless, Houston remains among the top contenders in the Western Conference with a record of 28-16, just two games behind the No. 2 position.

ESPN’s Michael C. Wright contributed to this report.