Houston Rockets guard Fred VanVleet (5) attempts a layup against New Orleans Pelicans guard Trey Murphy III (25) in the first half of an NBA basketball game in New Orleans, Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Peter Forest)

New Orleans Pelicans guard Javonte Green (4) fouls Houston Rockets forward Jae'Sean Tate (8) in the first half of an NBA basketball game in New Orleans, Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Peter Forest)

Houston Rockets forward Jae'Sean Tate (8) defends New Orleans Pelicans guard Trey Murphy III (25) in the first half of an NBA basketball game in New Orleans, Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Peter Forest)

Houston Rockets guard Fred VanVleet (5) shoots a jumper in the paint against New Orleans Pelicans center Daniel Theis (10) in the first half of an NBA basketball game in New Orleans, Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Peter Forest)

Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka gives orders to his player on the court in the first half of an NBA basketball game against the New Orleans Pelicans in New Orleans, Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Peter Forest)

New Orleans Pelicans center Yves Missi (21) pulls down a rebound in the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Houston Rockets in New Orleans, Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Peter Forest)