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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the winning points deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their NBA title defense with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the titleholders a positive start.

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

But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points, played a major role together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Grit and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their showing. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, fortune or misfortune. We did sufficient defence to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."

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

The Thunder beat the Pacers in the previous season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their maiden championship since the franchise relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.

Indiana will have the opportunity to secure some early revenge on this Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Houston return to action on the same day at the Pistons.

In other action, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from the Slovenian star was not enough to stop his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.

Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 for the visiting Warriors.

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