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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the game-winning baskets deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP poured in 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds left in the second overtime, securing the champions a winning beginning.

The Rockets' big man led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also connected on a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.

But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points of his own, played a major role together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Determination and defense," SGA said of their showing. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or bad luck. We did enough defence to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

Prior to the tip-off, Oklahoma's championship banner was raised at their home court, while the squad were presented with their title rings.

Oklahoma City defeated the Indiana Pacers in the previous 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 title.

The Pacers will have the chance to get some payback on this Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Rockets return to action on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.

Elsewhere, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from the Slovenian star was insufficient to stop his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.

Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 for the road team.

The Lakers were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he is recovering from sciatica.