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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the decisive baskets deep into double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder 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 double OT, securing the titleholders a positive start.

The Rockets' big man top-scored with 39 points and also hit a personal-best five three-pointers.

But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points, played a major role together with the game's hero.

"Determination and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their performance. "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 defensive work to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."

Before the tip-off, Oklahoma's title banner was raised at their arena, while the players were presented with their title rings.

Oklahoma City beat the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.

The Pacers will have the chance to get some payback on Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Rockets are back on court on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.

In other action, a huge performance 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.

Miami's star picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 points for the road team.

Los Angeles were without the league's top scorer LeBron James as he recovers from sciatica.