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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the game-winning points late in double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defense with a 125-124 victory over the Houston Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, featuring 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 led all scorers with 39 points and also hit a career-high five three-pointers.

But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points of his own, played a major role alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Grit and defence," SGA commented of their performance. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, fortune or misfortune. We did sufficient defence to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

Prior to the tip-off, Oklahoma's title banner was unveiled at their arena, while the players were awarded their title rings.

Oklahoma City beat the Indiana Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the franchise relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.

Indiana will have the chance to get some payback on this Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Rockets return to action on the identical day at the Pistons.

In other action, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough 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 chipped in 23 points for the visiting Warriors.

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