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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the game-winning baskets deep into double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the Houston Rockets.

Last season's MVP scored a team-high 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds remaining in double OT, giving the titleholders a positive start.

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

But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points of his own, was instrumental alongside the game's hero.

"Determination and defence," SGA commented of their showing. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, good luck or bad luck. We did sufficient 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 unveiled at their home court, while the squad were presented with their title rings.

The Thunder beat the Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.

Indiana will have the opportunity to secure some payback on Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Houston are back on court on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.

In other action, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was not enough to stop his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

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

The Lakers were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from sciatica.