This is commonly known as the “high-five rule” and is explained in the NBA’s video rulebook, with an example showing a defender slapping the shooting hand of a player during his follow-through: “Because the contact was incidental, and it occurred after the release of the shot, no foul would be assessed on this play.”

Warriors coach Steve Kerr said Rockets defenders are trying to "outsmart the rules" by hitting Stephen Curry's hand after he releases his shot and said it's something he hopes the league addresses after the season.

Stephen Curry struggled with his sprained right thumb in the Warriors’ Game 5 loss. Rockets forward Dillon Brooks didn’t deny accusations he’s trying to hit it.