NFL hardman thought about taking on Steven Adams

Houston Texans J.J. Watt watches on as the Houston Rockets clash with the Oklahoma City Thunder. Photo / AP

One of the NFL's most terrifying players says he was tempted to rush the court and take on Kiwi NBA star Steven Adams after he flattened Rockets guard Patrick Beverley.

J.J Watt, a defensive end for the Houston Texans, was sitting courtside during game one of the Western Conference playoff series between Adams' Oklahoma City Thunder and the Houston Rockets.

He had a good view when Adams set a brutal mid-court screen for point guard Russell Westbrook, obliterating Beverley in the process.

Beverley, who is also known as one of the league's most physical backcourt defenders, stayed down for a few seconds and seemed to indicate he wanted to leave, but quickly gave a "thumbs up" and continued.

Watt, listed at 1.96m tall and 134kg, told AP that he actually thought about rushing on the court for a brief moment.

"That dude knocks him out," Watt said. "And I was like: 'OK, we may have a problem you're messing with my guy Pat.'"

Beverley had the last laugh, though, finishing the game with 21 points and 10 rebounds, while Adams had an otherwise quiet outing, scoring six points and grabbing five boards.

Beverley had the last laugh, though, finishing the game with 21 points and 10 rebounds, while Adams had an otherwise quiet outing, scoring six points and grabbing five boards in a 118-87 defeat.