Russell Westbrook posted his 139th career triple-double with 28 points, 13 assists and 10 rebounds as the Rockets edged the Pelicans 126-123 in Houston.
Westbrook passed Magic Johnson for the second-most triple-doubles in NBA history.
James Harden contributed 29 points for the Rockets, who won their first game of the season.
Brandon Ingram had a game-high 35 points and 15 rebounds for New Orleans, who start the season with three losses.