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The Thunder's star player delivered the game-winning baskets deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defense with a narrow win over the Houston Rockets.

The reigning MVP scored 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds left in double OT, giving the champions a positive start.

The Rockets' big man top-scored with 39 points and also connected on a career-high five three-pointers.

But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points of his own, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

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

Before the tip-off, the team's championship banner was raised at their home court, while the players were awarded their title rings.

Oklahoma City defeated the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their first title since the team relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.

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

In other action, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from the Slovenian star was insufficient to stop his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.

Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 for the road team.

Los Angeles were missing the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from sciatica.