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MIAMI - OCTOBER 12:  Forward LeBron James #6 on the court against CSKA Moscow on October 12, 2010 in Miami, Florida.  Miami heat won 96-85 over CSKA Moscow.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photo
MIAMI - OCTOBER 12: Forward LeBron James #6 on the court against CSKA Moscow on October 12, 2010 in Miami, Florida. Miami heat won 96-85 over CSKA Moscow. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photoMarc Serota/Getty Images

NBA 2010-2011 Season Forecast: Odds and Predictions For Every NBA Team

James BrownOct 16, 2010

The NBA 2010-2011 season is just around the corner and the off season leading up to tip-off has been full of drama, intrigue and suspense. LeBron James changed uniform, the “new” Big Three was formed, and many experts handed the Miami Heat the 2010-2011 Championship trophy.

Hang on one minute. The Heat was not the only team to improve in the off-season and Kobe Bryant and the LA Lakers may have something to say about the championship before the season is over.

Here is a preview of every team in the NBA, their odds to win the championship, and the prediction on how the season will finish.

Washington Wizards

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NEW YORK - JUNE 24:  John Wall of Kentucky stands with NBA Commisioner David Stern after being drafted with the first pick by The Washington Wizards at Madison Square Garden on June 24, 2010 in New York, New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowl
NEW YORK - JUNE 24: John Wall of Kentucky stands with NBA Commisioner David Stern after being drafted with the first pick by The Washington Wizards at Madison Square Garden on June 24, 2010 in New York, New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowl

Odds to win the 2010-2011 NBA Championship from BetPhoenix: 124 to 1

Those odds may be a bit generous for a team that is still in a rebuilding/reorganizing state at the moment. The Wizards to get a big win by pulling the number one draft pick in point guard John Wall. Wall is out of Kentucky and is projected by many experts to be the best rookie in the NBA this season.

The future in Washington looks bright, except for one slight problem and his name is Gilbert Arenas. For a guy that has not been relevant in the NBA for several years, he still finds a way to get his name in the papers. The season has not even started and he already has faked an injury, been fined $50K and has been really injured. The Wizards will not begin to succeed until they get Arenas to buy into the changes, or ship him off to another team.

NBA 2010-2011 Outlook: Not a shot at the Championship and will miss the playoffs. Another lottery ball is on the horizon for the Wizards.

Toronto Raptors

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ORLANDO, FL - DECEMBER 16:  Andrea Bargnani #7 of the Toronto Raptors drives past Dwight Howard #12 of the Orlando Magic during the game at Amway Arena on December 16, 2009 in Orlando, Florida.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, b
ORLANDO, FL - DECEMBER 16: Andrea Bargnani #7 of the Toronto Raptors drives past Dwight Howard #12 of the Orlando Magic during the game at Amway Arena on December 16, 2009 in Orlando, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, b

Odds to win the 2010-2011 NBA Championship from BetPhoenix: 335 to 1

The Raptors had promise heading into last year and it went south quick. When the season ended the turmoil was not over as Chris Bosh was rumored to fake injuries to stay off the court and Hedo Turkoglu asked to be traded out of town.

The big new of Chris Bosh headed to Miami was no surprise, but the Raptors tried to hold his sign and trade deal hostage and in the end it backfired on them. The Raptors lost arguably their best players and got nothing in return.

NBA 2010-2011 Outlook: It’s going to be a long season for the Raptors and they are in contention for the worst record in the league.

Cleveland Cavaliers

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LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 08:  Head coach Byron Scott of the New Orleans Hornets looks on during the game with the Los Angeles Lakers on November 8, 2009 at Staples Center in Los Angeles, California. The Lakers won 104-88.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly a
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 08: Head coach Byron Scott of the New Orleans Hornets looks on during the game with the Los Angeles Lakers on November 8, 2009 at Staples Center in Los Angeles, California. The Lakers won 104-88. NOTE TO USER: User expressly a

Odds to win the 2010-2011 NBA Championship from BetPhoenix: 275 to 1

What a difference a year makes in Cleveland. They went from NBA title contenders to losing the best player in basketball. When LeBron James announced he was bringing his talents to South Beach, the ugly divorce from Cleveland was officially under way.

Owner Dan Gilbert took center stage and publicly blasted James whenever he could. When the dust had settled James was not the only player to jump ship. Shaquille O’Neal, Zydrunas Ilgauskas,  Delonte West, and Sebastian Telfair also left or were given away as the Cavaliers look to rebuild.

Gilbert did make a smart move by bringing Byron Scott to coach the club, but he has a lot of work ahead of him.

NBA 2010-2011 Outlook: The Cavs will not win now or anytime soon with the lineup they have. They will look forward to booing LeBron when he comes to town, but they could set a record for franchise losses. The Cavs will be in the running for the No. one draft pick at season end.

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Minnesota Timberwolves

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PHOENIX - MARCH 16:  Kevin Love #42 of the Minnesota Timberwolves looks to pass the ball during the NBA game against the Phoenix Suns at US Airways Center on March 16, 2010 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Suns defeated the Timberwolves 152-114.  NOTE TO USER: Us
PHOENIX - MARCH 16: Kevin Love #42 of the Minnesota Timberwolves looks to pass the ball during the NBA game against the Phoenix Suns at US Airways Center on March 16, 2010 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Suns defeated the Timberwolves 152-114. NOTE TO USER: Us

Odds to win the 2010-2011 NBA Championship from BetPhoenix: 400 to 1

This team is the worst in the NBA, hands down. This team will finish with more losses than any other team in the league and will be in the lottery.

The only thrill for the Minnesota fans is draft day when they can see just how bad that team president David Kahn can mess things up. He traded his best player in Al Jefferson to the Utah Jazz for a bag of peanuts.

This team is no full of young players that have some talent but little to no direction and perhaps more importantly, hope. Kevin Love is a building block down low and the recent draft will provide players, but it will be another long season in Minnesota.

NBA 2010-2011 Outlook: If I was going to make a bet on this team, it would be that they would finish with the least amount of wins in the league.

New Orleans Hornets

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NEW ORLEANS - OCTOBER 13:  Chris Paul #3 of the New Orleans Hornets drives the ball around Chris Bosh #1 of the Miami Heat at the New Orleans Arena on October 13, 2010 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, b
NEW ORLEANS - OCTOBER 13: Chris Paul #3 of the New Orleans Hornets drives the ball around Chris Bosh #1 of the Miami Heat at the New Orleans Arena on October 13, 2010 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, b

Odds to win the 2010-2011 NBA Championship from BetPhoenix: 135 to 1

All Star point guard Chris Paul seems very unhappy in the Big Easy. Paul complained all off season about the direction of the franchise and even demanded a trade at one point. Since then Paul has softened his stance on the team, but it is almost a given that he will be in a new uniform next year.

The team is full of players that have a ton of talent yet never produce. Emeka Okafor, Peja Stojakovic, and David West lead the way in potential but have never panned out. This will be a lame duck season for the Hornets.

NBA 2010-2011 Outlook: The Hornets play in a tough division and Paul will spend most of his season preparing to play somewhere else. This one could get ugly as the Hornets drift to the bottom of the NBA.

Philadelphia 76ers

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PHILADELPHIA - NOVEMBER 03:  Andre Iguodala #9 of the Philadelphia 76ers dunks against the Boston Celtics at the Wachovia Center on November 3, 2009 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading
PHILADELPHIA - NOVEMBER 03: Andre Iguodala #9 of the Philadelphia 76ers dunks against the Boston Celtics at the Wachovia Center on November 3, 2009 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading

Odds to win the 2010-2011 NBA Championship from BetPhoenix: 195 to 1

The odds are right and the Philadelphia 76ers have not shot of winning a championship this year, but that does not mean they will be a lower tier team in the NBA.

They have a great core of players in superstar wing Andre Iguodala, big man Elton Brand, and National Player of the Year Evan Turner. The key to this team will be the health of Brand down low and the development of Turner.  If those pieces can produce on a regular basis this year the 76ers will make the playoffs and some noise in the Eastern conference.

Letting Allen Iverson go is the right thing to do but his number should be retired in Philadelphia.

NBA 2010-2011 Outlook: Not a championship team yet, but finally the team is heading in the right direction.

New Jersey Nets

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NEW YORK - MAY 19:  New Jersey Nets Owner Mikhail Prokhorov addresses the media during a press conference at the Four Seasons Hotel on May 19, 2010 in New York City.  (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images)
NEW YORK - MAY 19: New Jersey Nets Owner Mikhail Prokhorov addresses the media during a press conference at the Four Seasons Hotel on May 19, 2010 in New York City. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images)

Odds to win the 2010-2011 NBA Championship from BetPhoenix: 140 to 1

The Nets struck out in the free agent sweepstakes and came up empty after all the big players signed with other teams. That does not mean they don’t have some talent.

Their new owner, Russian billionaire Mikhail Prokhorov has been making all the right moves early in his ownership. He hired Avery Johnson on as head coach, lured away Jordan Farmar from the Lakers, and drafted lottery pick Derrick Favors.

This team is far from winning and will not make the playoffs, but they have a good young core to build a quality team with.

NBA 2010-2011 Outlook: The future looks bright, but for now the hopes is not to lose more than 70 games. It's back to the lottery for the Nets.

Indiana Pacers

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CHICAGO - FEBRUARY 24: Danny Granger #33 of the Indiana Pacers goes up for a shot between Kirk Hinrich #12 and James Johnson #16 of the Chicago Bulls at the United Center on February 24, 2010 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges
CHICAGO - FEBRUARY 24: Danny Granger #33 of the Indiana Pacers goes up for a shot between Kirk Hinrich #12 and James Johnson #16 of the Chicago Bulls at the United Center on February 24, 2010 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges

Odds to win the 2010-2011 NBA Championship from BetPhoenix: 255 to 1

The Pacers may not be ready to win the Championship just yet but they have one of the best young talents in basketball in Danny Granger. The Pacers are rebuilding and are trying to do it with youth and nabbed a true point guard after trading for Darren Collison. Collison will give them consistency at the point that they have been missing for years. After Collison and Granger the Pacers are very thin. Larry Bird is running the club and allegedly turned down the offer to work with Cleveland but after this year he may have wished that he changed jobs.

NBA 2010-2011 Outlook: The Pacers have no shot at a championship and will be on the outside looking in when the playoffs start. The Pacers are headed in the right direction but still seem like they are years away from piecing together a team that can compete.

Charlotte Bobcats

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CHARLOTTE, NC - APRIL 26: Stephen Jackson #1 of the Charlotte Bobcats shoots a free throw against the Orlando Magic at Time Warner Cable Arena on April 26, 2010 in Charlotte, North Carolina.  The Magic defeated the Bobcats 99-90 to complete the four game
CHARLOTTE, NC - APRIL 26: Stephen Jackson #1 of the Charlotte Bobcats shoots a free throw against the Orlando Magic at Time Warner Cable Arena on April 26, 2010 in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Magic defeated the Bobcats 99-90 to complete the four game

Odds to win the 2010-2011 NBA Championship from BetPhoenix: 193 to 1

Michael Jordan was quoted as saying that with today’s rules in the NBA he could score 100 points in a game. He might have to do that if the Bobcats want to win a championship. The Cats finally made the playoffs a year ago, but left as quick as they entered as they were swept in the first round by the Magic.

In the off season Jordan and the front office did not do much to improve his club. They brought in some size with Kwame Brown and Erick Dampier but these players have a made a history of failing up to this point. You would think that Jordan would have learned when he drafted Brown as the No. one pick.

Stephen Jackson and Gerald Wallace are two viable scorers in the league that can carry this team on any given night, but if any team can defend them or they have an off-night, it will lead to a loss for the Bobcats.

NBA 2010-2011 Outlook: The Bobcats are on pace to do exactly what they did last year. They will be on the outside looking in late and will come very close to making the playoffs. If they do make the playoffs they will get a quick exit. Jordan still has plenty of work to do if he wants to make the Bobcats a contender.

Sacramento Kings

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LAS VEGAS - OCTOBER 13:  Tyreke Evans #13 of the Sacramento Kings drives ahead of Ron Artest #15 of the Los Angeles Lakers during their preseason game at the Thomas & Mack Center October 13, 2010 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Lakers won 98-95. NOTE TO USER: U
LAS VEGAS - OCTOBER 13: Tyreke Evans #13 of the Sacramento Kings drives ahead of Ron Artest #15 of the Los Angeles Lakers during their preseason game at the Thomas & Mack Center October 13, 2010 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Lakers won 98-95. NOTE TO USER: U

Odds to win the 2010-2011 NBA Championship from BetPhoenix: 285 to 1

The Kings have one of the best players in the game today in Tyreke Evans who landed the rookie of the year award last year. The Kings added big man DeMarcus Cousins in the draft and this dynamic duo will be the cornerstone of this franchise for years to come.

The excitement for this team ends right there. If you were to scan the rest of the rooster it would be tough to name another player that could make an impact on this team. Beno Udrih, Francisco Garcia, Antoine Wright and Luther Head are other players that can fill roles but not bring the Kings to the next level.

NBA 2010-2011 Outlook: The Kings have a very bright future and a great building block for this franchise but they still have some work to do. This year will not yield a playoff team and the Kings continue to build in the draft.

Memphis Grizzlies

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NEW ORLEANS - JANUARY 20:  Rudy Gay #22 of the Memphis Grizzlies goes up for a dunk over Chris Paul #3 of the New Orleans Hornets at the New Orleans Arena on January 20, 2010 in New Orleans, Louisiana.  The Hornets defeated the Grizzlies 113-111.  NOTE TO
NEW ORLEANS - JANUARY 20: Rudy Gay #22 of the Memphis Grizzlies goes up for a dunk over Chris Paul #3 of the New Orleans Hornets at the New Orleans Arena on January 20, 2010 in New Orleans, Louisiana. The Hornets defeated the Grizzlies 113-111. NOTE TO

Odds to win the 2010-2011 NBA Championship from BetPhoenix: 160 to 1

If the Grizzlies are going to get a championship in the near future they will do it with Rudy Gay. The team spent the off season giving signing Gay to a maximum contract and making him a cornerstone of the team.

Gay is surrounded by young talent on this team with the likes of O.J. Mayo, Hasheem Thabeet, and Zach Randolph but the team is still light years away from a run at a championship. The problem is they have yet to set a defensive presence on this team and that is what is needed to advance to the next level.

NBA 2010-2011 Outlook:Not a chance at a championship and the best bet for this team is adding talent via the draft.

New York Knicks

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PHOENIX - JUNE 22:  Amar'e Stoudemire of the Phoenix Suns attends the Major League Baseball game between the New York Yankees and the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field on June 22, 2010 in Phoenix, Arizona.  (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
PHOENIX - JUNE 22: Amar'e Stoudemire of the Phoenix Suns attends the Major League Baseball game between the New York Yankees and the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field on June 22, 2010 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

Odds to win the 2010-2011 NBA Championship from BetPhoenix: 68 to 1

The talk in the off season for the Knicks was LeBron James and the other potential all-stars the Knicks would sign. When the dust settled the biggest catch for the Knicks was forward Amar’e Stoudemire. While he was not the best free agent available he is s till a great pick up and will make the Knicks overnight.

After being criticized for not getting James, the Knicks rebounded and managed to get guards Raymond Felton and Roger Mason to fill out the roster.

With Mike D’Antoni at the helm this will be a run-n-gun team that will put up plenty of points and play little defense. They won’t win the East but will be in the hunt for a deep seed in the playoffs.

NBA 2010-2011 Outlook: The Knicks won’t win the championship, but the playoffs are a possibility. The rumors of Carmelo Anthony and Chris Paul coming to New York are getting stronger and if they join the team the Knicks will jump in status to championship contenders.

Detroit Pistons

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CHICAGO - DECEMBER 02: Ben Gordon #7 of the Detroit Pistons waits to shoot a free-throw against the Chicago Bulls at the United Center on December 2, 2009 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Pistons 92-85. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledge
CHICAGO - DECEMBER 02: Ben Gordon #7 of the Detroit Pistons waits to shoot a free-throw against the Chicago Bulls at the United Center on December 2, 2009 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Pistons 92-85. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledge

Odds to win the 2010-2011 NBA Championship from BetPhoenix: 185 to 1

The Detroit Pistons are a very proud organization that has taken a turn for the worse. Joe Dumars and the front office dumped a ton of money into free agents and signed Ben Gordon and Charlie Villanueva.

That move did not work out well for the Pistons because they had a miserable year and had no money to try to lure a free agent in the summer bonanza. The Pistons did manage to sign Tracy McGrady but T-Mac is past his prime and will not be able to stay healthy for an entire season.

NBA 2010-2011 Outlook: The Pistons have so much potential with the talent they have, but just never seem to get it done. This year will be no different and they should make the playoffs as  a late seed, but have virtually no shot at a championship.

Houston Rockets

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LOS ANGELES, CA - MAY 06:  Yao Ming #11 of the Houston Rockets reacts to a foul called on him in the second quarter against the Los Angeles Lakers in Game Two of the Western Conference Semifinals during the 2009 NBA Playoffs at Staples Center on May 6, 20
LOS ANGELES, CA - MAY 06: Yao Ming #11 of the Houston Rockets reacts to a foul called on him in the second quarter against the Los Angeles Lakers in Game Two of the Western Conference Semifinals during the 2009 NBA Playoffs at Staples Center on May 6, 20

Odds to win the 2010-2011 NBA Championship from BetPhoenix: 45 to 1

The Rockets near future rested on the injury that has sidelined Yao Ming over the years and the news was not good. Ming will play limited time during the season and essentially will be on a “pitch count” as the Rockets make a run at the title.

The Rockets counter with youth at the guard position with Aaron Brooks and Kevin Martin and that is enough to at least get them a 50 win season, but will it be enough to get them over the hump? The Rockets brought in Brad Miller to help at the center position and offset the time that will be missed by Ming.

NBA 2010-2011 Outlook: Rick Adelman is a great coach in the NBA but he will have to work miracles to get the Rockets deep in the post season. They don’t have enough talent to make the playoffs and the Rockets will look towards the draft this year.

LA Clippers

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LOS ANGELES, CA - OCTOBER 27:  Blake Griffin #32 of the Los Angeles Clippers watches the season opening game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Staples Center on October 27, 2009 in Los Angeles, California.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and ag
LOS ANGELES, CA - OCTOBER 27: Blake Griffin #32 of the Los Angeles Clippers watches the season opening game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Staples Center on October 27, 2009 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and ag

Odds to win the 2010-2011 NBA Championship from BetPhoenix: 195 to 1

It may have taken a year but finally the NBA will get to see what Blake Griffin can do. Griffin has already showed glimpses of the reason why the Clippers drafted him in the preseason. If he can avoid injury and get some playing time, he has the potential to be an all-star in this league. When healthy he will complement the play of big man Chris Kaman.

Add in the talent at guards with Baron Davis and Eric Gordon and the Clippers may be on to something. The way to win in the west is with size and depth and if the Clippers stay healthy they will have both.

NBA 2010-2011 Outlook: The Clippers are not going to win a championship (maybe ever) but they will make the playoffs. This team will be much better with a healthy Griffin and a veteran leading them at the point. The Clippers may finally get some respect.

Golden St. Warriors

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OAKLAND, CA - FEBRUARY 21: Monta Ellis #8 of the Golden State Warriors shoots against Al Horford #15  of the Atlanta Hawks during an NBA game at Oracle Arena on February 21, 2010 in Oakland, California.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agree
OAKLAND, CA - FEBRUARY 21: Monta Ellis #8 of the Golden State Warriors shoots against Al Horford #15 of the Atlanta Hawks during an NBA game at Oracle Arena on February 21, 2010 in Oakland, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agree

Odds to win the 2010-2011 NBA Championship from BetPhoenix: 185 to 1

The Warriors are rebuilding from every angle and the recently removed Don Nelson is a sign that the team is headed in another direction.  The Warriors are one of those teams that may surprise a few experts this year.

They have a steady tandem at guard in Monta Ellis and Stephen Curry and the acquisition of David Lee from the Knicks will make the Warriors a well-rounded team. This team is under new ownership and because of that they have headed into a new direction.

NBA 2010-2011 Outlook: The Warriors are not winning a championship anytime soon, but they will be a fun team to watch and I believe they will make the playoffs. This team is heading into the right direction and it starts to show this season.

Utah Jazz

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SALT LAKE CITY - MAY 10:  Deron Williams #8 of the Utah Jazz in action against the Los Angeles Lakers during Game Four of the Western Conference Semifinals of the 2010 NBA Playoffs on May 10, 2010 at Energy Solutions Arena in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO
SALT LAKE CITY - MAY 10: Deron Williams #8 of the Utah Jazz in action against the Los Angeles Lakers during Game Four of the Western Conference Semifinals of the 2010 NBA Playoffs on May 10, 2010 at Energy Solutions Arena in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO

Odds to win the 2010-2011 NBA Championship from BetPhoenix: 45 to 1

The Utah Jazz started the free agent season by losing their most physical player down low when Carlos Boozer signed with the Bulls. After that, others began to follow like sharp shooter Kyle Korver. The Jazz needed to respond and they did in a very big way.

The Jazz pulled Al Jefferson away from the Minnesota Timberwolves and grabbed an all-star with the ability to bring this team to the next level. Deron Williams will man the point and Jefferson will work down low giving the Jazz a potent one-two punch. Add a healthy Andrei Kirilenko and Mehmet Okur and this team is deadly and can make some waves in the West.

NBA 2010-2011 Outlook: The Jazz still has the same problem they have had for years and that is size. Teams in the west have been able to overpower them down low and eliminate them from the playoffs. Jefferson is a steal but I can’t back the Jazz as a championship contender in the West.

Milwaukee Bucks

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MILWAUKEE - APRIL 26: John Salmons #15 of the Milwaukee Bucks drives against Al Horford #15 of the Atlanta Hawks in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals during the 2010 NBA Playoffs at the Bradley Center on April 26, 2010 in Milwaukee, Wiscon
MILWAUKEE - APRIL 26: John Salmons #15 of the Milwaukee Bucks drives against Al Horford #15 of the Atlanta Hawks in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals during the 2010 NBA Playoffs at the Bradley Center on April 26, 2010 in Milwaukee, Wiscon

Odds to win the 2010-2011 NBA Championship from BetPhoenix: 70 to 1

Head coach Scott Skiles returns for his third season with the Milwaukee Bucks, and as funny as this may sound the Bucks have a shot at going deep into the playoffs. I am not ready to dub them championship worthy, but they do bring some talent to the floor.

Before getting hurt last year center Andrew Bogut was showing the signs of being a real big man in the NBA. If he is healthy this team is a threat and has scoring from everywhere on the floor.

The team made some noise in the off season by signing (and perhaps overpaying) Drew Gooden and Corey Maggette. John Salmons and Michael Redd will bring plenty of steady scoring for this team and they have a chemistry already established.

NBA 2010-2011 Outlook: This is going to be a team that surprises in the NBA. They key to winning for this team will be how healthy they can stay all year long. If they enter the playoffs healthy they can go deeper than most people think. Putting money on them to win the championship would be a waste but a few bucks just for fun, may pay off in the end.

Phoenix Suns

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PHOENIX - OCTOBER 12:  Steve Nash #13 of the Phoenix Suns handles the ball during the preseason NBA game against the Utah Jazz at US Airways Center on October 12, 2010 in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by down
PHOENIX - OCTOBER 12: Steve Nash #13 of the Phoenix Suns handles the ball during the preseason NBA game against the Utah Jazz at US Airways Center on October 12, 2010 in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by down

Odds to win the 2010-2011 NBA Championship from BetPhoenix: 54 to 1

The Suns are a team that always seems to be in the middle of a championship run, but they always fall short. Steve Nash is a player that always has a chance to bring back the MVP, but this year he will be without Amar’e Stoudemire.

The team lost a big body and automatic scorer and will attempt to fill the void with the acquisition of Hedo Turkoglu, Josh Childress, and Hakim Warrick. The Suns actually will be much more of a defensive team with the new additions. They lose the scoring but gain a defensive presence that has not been seen in the desert for a long time.

NBA 2010-2011 Outlook: The Sun has set on this team (pun intended). Steve Nash is in his mid-30’s and the Hallf-Of Famer will not have much left in the tank. They will make the playoffs but the window to win a championship has closed.

Atlanta Hawks

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ATLANTA - MAY 08:  Joe Johnson #2 of the Atlanta Hawks against the Orlando Magic during Game Three of the Eastern Conference Semifinals during the 2010 NBA Playoffs at Philips Arena on May 8, 2010 in Atlanta, Georgia.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowl
ATLANTA - MAY 08: Joe Johnson #2 of the Atlanta Hawks against the Orlando Magic during Game Three of the Eastern Conference Semifinals during the 2010 NBA Playoffs at Philips Arena on May 8, 2010 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowl

Odds to win the 2010-2011 NBA Championship from BetPhoenix: 67 to 1

The Hawks basically have the same team from a year ago, but that may not be a bad thing. They dumped over $120 million to retain the services of Joe Johnson and maintain the supporting cast.

The Hawks have five players that average in double digits and the always reliable Mike Bibby to run the point. There is no doubt that the Hawks are a playoff team, but it is yet to be seen if they can go to the next level.

NBA 2010-2011 Outlook: The Hawks will make the playoffs and are always a threat to advance. The main problem for this team in the post season has been defense of the lack of it. Without defense, other teams clamp down on the Hawks offense and knock them out of the playoffs. The Hawks may surprise someone in the playoffs depending on their match up, but they will not win or play for, a championship.

Dallas Mavericks

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SAN ANTONIO - APRIL 25:  Dirk Nowitzki #41 of the Dallas Mavericks in Game Four of the Western Conference Quarterfinals during the 2010 NBA Playoffs at AT&T Center on April 25, 2010 in San Antonio, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agre
SAN ANTONIO - APRIL 25: Dirk Nowitzki #41 of the Dallas Mavericks in Game Four of the Western Conference Quarterfinals during the 2010 NBA Playoffs at AT&T Center on April 25, 2010 in San Antonio, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agre

Odds to win the 2010-2011 NBA Championship from BetPhoenix: 25 to 1

The NBA season would not be complete without Mark Cuban. The flamboyant Mavericks owner is entertaining and is always a joy to watch, but the one thing he has not done, is win a championship. Cuban took care of business in the off season by bring back Dirk Nowitzki to the team, but is it enough?

The Mavericks always make it to the top of the Western conference and make the playoffs with a high seed but inevitably go home without a trophy. The Mavericks have Jason Kidd and Jason Terry but the Mavericks are aging and this may be their last shot to win a championship.

NBA 2010-2011 Outlook: A championship is not likely and this team is almost ready to rebuild. The superstars they do have are getting old and they still do not have a strong rebounding presence down low. Without that a bet on the Mavericks to win a championship is a waste of money.

Portland Trailblazers

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PORTLAND, OR - APRIL 29:  Brandon Roy #7 of the Portland Trail Blazers in action against the Phoenix Suns during Game Six of the Western Conference Quarterfinals of the NBA Playoffs on April 29, 2010 at the Rose Garden in Portland, Oregon. The Suns defeat
PORTLAND, OR - APRIL 29: Brandon Roy #7 of the Portland Trail Blazers in action against the Phoenix Suns during Game Six of the Western Conference Quarterfinals of the NBA Playoffs on April 29, 2010 at the Rose Garden in Portland, Oregon. The Suns defeat

Odds to win the 2010-2011 NBA Championship from BetPhoenix: 35 to 1

This is the year the Blazers stay healthy and play for a championship right? Every year Blazer fans keep their fingers crossed and say their prayers thinking that this will be the year that the team stays healthy.

Greg Oden has been highly touted since coming out of college, yet he is always hurt and never plays an entire season. Eight key contributors to this team missed over 100 games and yet the Blazers still made the playoffs and showed that they are a quality ball club.

Nate McMillan leads the team in his sixth season and will hope they finally live up to the hype.

NBA 2010-2011 Outlook: If Brandon Roy and Greg Oden can stay healthy I would put money on this team to have a shot at winning the championship. The problem is that never seems to happen and putting money on this team to win is one injury away from disappearing.

Denver Nuggets

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SALT LAKE CITY - APRIL 25:  Carmelo Anthony #15 of the Denver Nuggets is pictured after being called for a foul against the Utah Jazz during  Game Four of the Western Conference Quarterfinals of the 2010 NBA Playoffs at EnergySolutions Arena on April 25,
SALT LAKE CITY - APRIL 25: Carmelo Anthony #15 of the Denver Nuggets is pictured after being called for a foul against the Utah Jazz during Game Four of the Western Conference Quarterfinals of the 2010 NBA Playoffs at EnergySolutions Arena on April 25,

Odds to win the 2010-2011 NBA Championship from BetPhoenix: 31 to 1

The Nuggets have a very talented team and a great home court advantage and always have a chance of going deep into the playoffs. This year it seems like things are going to be very different.

The season has not started yet the talk of the town is when Carmelo Anthony will be traded and where he will play next year.  If this goes on for most of the year it will be a distraction all season. It’s a shame too, because the Nuggets have a good team.

They have a floor leader with a big game shot in Chauncey Billups, and when healthy Kenyon martin is a force down low. They added forward Al Harrington and the Nuggets can make some noise in the west.

NBA 2010-2011 Outlook: This team is so good it’s a shame to see off the court things take away their chances of winning it all. George Karl can handle this team and mold them into a winner, but every time they lose the Anthony trade rumors will heat up and distract this team. The odds are nice but I can’t take a chance with all that is going on in Denver.

Oklahoma City Thunder

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OKLAHOMA CITY - APRIL 22: Kevin Durant #35 of the Oklahoma City Thunder dunks the ball against Ron Artest #37 of the Los Angeles Lakers during Game Three of the Western Conference Quarterfinals of the 2010 NBA Playoffs on April 22, 2010 at the Ford Center
OKLAHOMA CITY - APRIL 22: Kevin Durant #35 of the Oklahoma City Thunder dunks the ball against Ron Artest #37 of the Los Angeles Lakers during Game Three of the Western Conference Quarterfinals of the 2010 NBA Playoffs on April 22, 2010 at the Ford Center

Odds to win the 2010-2011 NBA Championship from BetPhoenix: 16 to 1

Kevin Durant is the leading scorer from a year ago and the odds on favorite to bring in a MVP award. The thunder struck it rich with Durant and surrounded him with enough talent to make them contenders in the tough western conference. All they needed was experience and they got that a year ago when they went to the playoffs.

Russell Westbrook is an unheralded player that should get more respect than he does. Along with an improving Jeff Green and James Harden the Thunder are ready to rumble. They have to come together as a young team if they want to advance in the playoffs.

NBA 2010-2011 Outlook: This team is still not ready but only because they are so young. They will make the playoffs and go deep, but winning a championship this year is highly unlikely. Keep watching, the Thunder are only a few years away from being a favorite to win the West.

Orlando Magic

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BOSTON - MAY 28:  Dwight Howard #12 of the Orlando Magic dunks against the Boston Celtics in Game Six of the Eastern Conference Finals during the 2010 NBA Playoffs at TD Garden on May 28, 2010 in Boston, Massachusetts.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknow
BOSTON - MAY 28: Dwight Howard #12 of the Orlando Magic dunks against the Boston Celtics in Game Six of the Eastern Conference Finals during the 2010 NBA Playoffs at TD Garden on May 28, 2010 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknow

Odds to win the 2010-2011 NBA Championship from BetPhoenix: 14 to 1

As long as the Orlando Magic has Dwight Howard they are a threat to win the NBA Championship. Last year he carried the team to the Eastern Conference Finals before losing to the Boston Celtics.

Howard is surrounded by sharpshooters from the outside and when they are on fire they are a deadly three pointing team that opens up the inside. The Magic need Vince Carter to apply himself in the post season if they Magic want to go to the championship game. Carter all but disappeared against Boston in the Finals and if he does it again the Magic will be bounced quickly.

Since LeBron and Co. arrived in Miami, the Magic have been talking smack and this is quickly becoming a great rivalry.

NBA 2010-2011 Outlook: The Magic has a realistic shot of winning the East and going to the NBA finals, even with the improvement of the Miami Heat. The odds reflect a good buy on the Magic but I am not sold on this team winning it all with Carter on the team.

San Antonio Spurs

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SAN ANTONIO - MAY 07:  Forward Tim Duncan #21 of the San Antonio Spurs takes a shot against Channing Frye #8 of the Phoenix Suns in Game Three of the Western Conference Semifinals during the 2010 NBA Playoffs at AT&T Center on May 7, 2010 in San Antonio,
SAN ANTONIO - MAY 07: Forward Tim Duncan #21 of the San Antonio Spurs takes a shot against Channing Frye #8 of the Phoenix Suns in Game Three of the Western Conference Semifinals during the 2010 NBA Playoffs at AT&T Center on May 7, 2010 in San Antonio,

Odds to win the 2010-2011 NBA Championship from BetPhoenix: 30 to 1

If you are looking for a dark horse team to win the NBA championship with great odds, the Spurs are your team. Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili, Richard Jefferson, and Tony Parkers are a solid veteran core that can bring this team to the playoffs with ease.

They are led by Gregg Popovich who begins his 15th season as the coach of the Spurs and he can lead this team to a championship. If you don’t know the name Tiago Splitter, you will by the end of the season. The Spurs rookie is anything but a rookie as he has won almost every award possible playing overseas. The Spurs own his rights and he will play this year and be a twin tower accomplice down low for Tim Duncan.

NBA 2010-2011 Outlook: Don’t close the door on this team. In the past they could not beat the Suns, but Phoenix will be out of the running this year. With Splitter in the fold the Spurs have the size to match up with anyone in the West to include the Lakers and are the best bet to win a championship at 30 to 1 odds.

Miami Heat

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MIAMI - SEPTEMBER 27:  (L-R) LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat pose for photos during media day at the Bank United Center on September 27, 2010 in Miami, Florida.  (Photo by Marc Serota/Getty Images)
MIAMI - SEPTEMBER 27: (L-R) LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat pose for photos during media day at the Bank United Center on September 27, 2010 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Marc Serota/Getty Images)

Odds to win the 2010-2011 NBA Championship from BetPhoenix: 1.6 to 1

This may be breaking news to some but the Heat had a pretty good off season I the free agent market. Dwyane Wade, LeBron James, and Chris Bosh are now the latest version of the NBA “Big Three” and many experts are already crowing them as champions.

Pat Riley returns to the bench as head coach and the only question would be if the heat could afford enough role players to fill the team. The Heat responded by signing Mike Miller, Zydrunas Ilgauskas, Eddie House, and Juwan Howard.

This team is very good there is no doubt about it, but the jury is out on the chemistry that the Big Three and the Rest of this team will form.

NBA 2010-2011 Outlook: The odds are low on this team as they are the favorites to win it all. I am passing on the Heat they have to prove they can play together, and are already suffering from nagging injuries.

Boston Celtics

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LOS ANGELES, CA - JUNE 17:  Paul Pierce #34 of the Boston Celtics moves the ball while taking on the Los Angeles Lakers in Game Seven of the 2010 NBA Finals at Staples Center on June 17, 2010 in Los Angeles, California.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly ackno
LOS ANGELES, CA - JUNE 17: Paul Pierce #34 of the Boston Celtics moves the ball while taking on the Los Angeles Lakers in Game Seven of the 2010 NBA Finals at Staples Center on June 17, 2010 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly ackno

Odds to win the 2010-2011 NBA Championship from BetPhoenix: 9.5 to 1

The Boston Celtics decided to make one last run at a championship trophy. The club retained Paul Pierce, and Ray Allen, and convinced Doc Rivers to come back for one more year. The players basically took a home town discount with one more chance at raising a banner in Boston.

Danny Ainge filled the holes nicely on the team by bringing in Shaquille O’Neal, Jermaine O’Neal and Delonte West. They will miss the defense that they lost when Tony Allen left the club, but they have all the pieces in place to make a run at the title.

They had a solid draft in bringing in guard Avery Bradley and power forward Luke Harangody, that will bring this team balance with an injection of youth.

NBA 2010-2011 Outlook: The key with this team is staying healthy. The team is filled with older veterans but Doc Rivers knows how to save them up for the playoffs like he did last year when the team went to the Finals. These odds are a nice price as the Celtics have a realistic chance of winning it all.

Chicago Bulls

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CLEVELAND - APRIL 27:  Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls looks to pass the ball around LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game Five of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals during the 2010 NBA Playoffs at Quicken Loans Arena on April 27, 201
CLEVELAND - APRIL 27: Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls looks to pass the ball around LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game Five of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals during the 2010 NBA Playoffs at Quicken Loans Arena on April 27, 201

Odds to win the 2010-2011 NBA Championship from BetPhoenix: 24 to 1

The Bulls were another team that was criticized for not acquiring LeBron James or Dwyane Wade in the free agent market. They may not have gotten either of those superstars but they did just fine.

After realizing the Big Three was going to Miami, Chicago made sure that they were not going to leave empty handed. They went out and signed Carlos Boozer, Ronnie Brewer, Kyle Korver, Keith Bogans, and Kurt Thomas and will have one of the best young teams in the league.

Unlike Boston and Miami they will have depth and youth in the lineup making the Bulls a very deadly team capable of winning a championship.

New head coach Tom Thibodeau is unproven, but brings in a great defensive mind that will allow the Bulls to shutdown high scoring teams. Derrick Rose is the leader and best player on this team and he will have skill at every position to try and bring a banner to the Windy City.

NBA 2010-2011 Outlook: Barring injuries the Bulls have a legitimate shot of winning a championship. The odds are better than the Celtics and the Heat so the timing may be right to back the Bulls to win a championship.

La Lakers

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LAS VEGAS - OCTOBER 13:  Kobe Bryant #24 of the Los Angeles Lakers drives against the Sacramento Kings during their preseason game at the Thomas & Mack Center October 13, 2010 in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that
LAS VEGAS - OCTOBER 13: Kobe Bryant #24 of the Los Angeles Lakers drives against the Sacramento Kings during their preseason game at the Thomas & Mack Center October 13, 2010 in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that

Odds to win the 2010-2011 NBA Championship from BetPhoenix: 2.8 to 1

Do you think the Lakers are sick of all the LeBron James talk? The Lakers won the NBA Championship last year but all of the off season talks surrounded the new Big Three in Miami. Unless you lived in LA you may have missed the parade.

This never sits well with the Lakers. Phil Jackson decided to stick around for one more season and Kobe Bryant looks focused in preseason. They let Jordan Farmar go but replaced him with Steve Blake and added Matt Barnes to add defense and intensity. Some might even argue that the Lakers are better than they were a year ago.

NBA 2010-2011 Outlook: Kobe Bryant and Phil Jackson is all you need to believe that the Lakers can win another title. The Lakers needed a reason to be hungry and they got it with the media firestorm surrounding the Miami Heat. The odds are pretty sweet considering the Lakers are the defending champions.

Matt Regaw is a B/R Featured Columnist and the founder of BookieBlitz.com, your one-stop shop for sports articles, previews, and predictions. Feel Free to contact Matt at mregaw@gmail.com

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