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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the winning points late in a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a narrow victory over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds left in the second overtime, securing the champions a winning beginning.

The Rockets' big man led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also hit a career-high five three-pointers.

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

"Grit and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their performance. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, misses, good luck or bad luck. 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 championship banner was raised at their arena, while the squad were awarded their title rings.

Oklahoma City beat the Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the franchise moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.

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

Elsewhere, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes 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 Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 for the road team.

The Lakers were without the league's top scorer LeBron James as he recovers from a back issue.