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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the winning baskets late in a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a narrow victory over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP scored 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds remaining in the second overtime, giving the champions a winning beginning.

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

But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Determination and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their showing. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, 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 title banner was raised at their arena, while the players were presented with their championship rings.

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

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

In other action, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was insufficient to prevent his current team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.

Miami's star picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 for the visiting Warriors.

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