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The Thunder's star player delivered the game-winning points deep into double overtime as the defending champions opened their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the Houston Rockets.

Last season's MVP scored a team-high 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds left in the second overtime, giving the titleholders a positive start.

Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also connected on a career-high five three-pointers.

But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points of his own, played a major role alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

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

Prior to the game, Oklahoma's title banner was raised at their home court, while the squad were awarded their title rings.

Oklahoma City beat the Indiana Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the team relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.

The Pacers will have the chance to secure some early revenge on Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Houston are back on court on the same day at the Pistons.

Elsewhere, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was insufficient to stop his new team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

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

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