Houston Rockets guard Fred VanVleet (5) controls the ball against New Orleans Pelicans center Yves Missi (21) during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Houston, Thursday, Dec. 19, 2024. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)

New Orleans Pelicans guard Javonte Green, right, fouls Houston Rockets guard Jalen Green (4) during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Houston, Thursday, Dec. 19, 2024. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)

New Orleans Pelicans center Yves Missi (21) defends against Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Houston, Thursday, Dec. 19, 2024. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)

Houston Rockets guard Fred VanVleet (5) shoots against New Orleans Pelicans guard Trey Murphy III (25) during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Houston, Thursday, Dec. 19, 2024. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)

Houston Rockets forward Dillon Brooks (9) shoots against New Orleans Pelicans guard Dejounte Murray (5) during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Houston, Thursday, Dec. 19, 2024. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)

Houston Rockets guard Jalen Green (4) controls the ball against New Orleans Pelicans center Trey Jemison III (55) during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Houston, Thursday, Dec. 19, 2024. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)