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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the decisive points deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP scored 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, giving the champions a winning beginning.

The Rockets' big man top-scored with 39 points and also hit a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.

But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points of his own, was instrumental together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Grit and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their performance. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, misses, good luck or misfortune. We did sufficient defence to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."

Before the game, the team's championship banner was raised at their home court, while the squad were presented with their title rings.

Oklahoma City defeated the Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their maiden championship since the team moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.

Indiana will have the opportunity to secure some payback on Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Houston return to action on the identical day at the Pistons.

Elsewhere, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his new team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

Miami's star scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 points for the road team.

The Lakers were without the league's top scorer James as he recovers from sciatica.