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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the decisive points late in double overtime as the defending champions opened their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the Houston Rockets.

The reigning MVP scored a team-high 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds remaining in double OT, giving the champions a positive start.

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

But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points of his own, was instrumental together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Grit and defence," SGA commented of their showing. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, good luck or misfortune. We did enough defence to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."

Prior to the game, Oklahoma's title banner was unveiled at their home court, while the players were presented with their title rings.

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

The Pacers will have the chance to get some payback on this Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Houston are back on court on the identical day at the Pistons.

In other action, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from the Slovenian star was not enough to prevent his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

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

The Lakers were missing the league's top scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from sciatica.