Los Angeles Clippers guard James Harden (1) scoops up the ball in front of Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard, right, during the first half of an Emirates NBA Cup basketball game Friday, Nov. 15, 2024, in Houston. (AP Photo/Michael Wyke)

Los Angeles Clippers forward Kai Jones, left, blocks a shot-attempt by Houston Rockets guard Jalen Green (4) as Clippers guard James Harden watches during the first half of an Emirates NBA Cup basketball game Friday, Nov. 15, 2024, in Houston. (AP Photo/Michael Wyke)

Houston Rockets forward Tari Eason, left, reaches in to force a jump ball with Los Angeles Clippers guard James Harden, front right, as Rockets guard Reed Sheppard, back right, looks on during the first half of an Emirates NBA Cup basketball game Friday, Nov. 15, 2024, in Houston. (AP Photo/Michael Wyke)