The NBA begins a shortened 66 game season on Christmas Day after a lengthy absence due to a players' strike - here's a look at the teams in the Western Conference.
Los Angeles Lakers - Odds to win the Championship 8.2
The Lakers were swept by Dallas in the second round of the playoffs last season. This veteran team relies heavily on Kobe Bryant, who must stay injury free if LA are to stand a chance of winning the championship. Lamar Odum was shipped to Dallas to make way for a possible trade involving Chris Paul from New Orleans. It appears that Pau Gasol may also be traded before the deadline.
Oklahoma City Thunder 9.8
The future is now for this talented rotation. Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook are the backbone of this explosive team and they look set for another big year. I believe they have the ability to win the championship and should be backed at the odds on offer.
Dallas Mavericks 13.0
The Mavs won the NBA title last season after dispatching Miami in six games. This veteran team will not go down easily and are certain to make an impact in the post-season. German Sports Personality of the Year, Dirk Nowitzki, is hungry for another title and it may just happen. Dallas are legitimate championship contenders and are priced accordingly.
Los Angeles Clippers 22.0
The Clippers are led by superstar Blake Griffin who has made a huge impact in the league. LA have been rebuilding for the past 20 years but they may have got it right this time. They are certainly not without a chance.
Memphis Grizzlies 40.0
The Grizzlies are a solid outfit. They dispatched San Antonio in the playoffs last season, which was no mean feat. I am certain they will make the playoffs but they lack the depth to go all the way.
San Antonio Spurs 44.0
The Spurs are not getting any younger but they have a talented core led by the great Tim Duncan. First and foremost, San Antonio play smart basketball and that should carry them in to the post-season at the very least. They are fairly priced.
Portland Trailblazers 55.0
The Trailblazers have been plagued with injuries for the past few years, most notably to point guard Brandon Roy who was forced to retire in recent days. They are talented but difficult to fancy at this price.
Phoenix Suns 150.0
The great Steve Nash is the leader of this high octane team. Sadly they are not the force they once were and are destined to struggle.
Denver Nuggets 150.0
The Nuggets lost superstar Carmelo Anthony to New York last season and have not found a suitable replacement yet. Coach George Karl will have his work cut out to get this team to the post-season.
Utah Jazz 150.0
With the departure of Deron Williams to New Jersey last season this team needs to find an identity quickly. They have some talent but they will struggle without a true star in the rotation.
Houston Rockets 150.0
The Rockets will not find things easy this season. They are a very young team without a franchise player and a new coach in Kevin McHale. Tough to fancy at any price.
Golden State Warriors 250.0
The Warriors look certain to struggle again. They have a shocking defense which will ensure they no not make the playoffs. New coach Mark Jackson is in for a bumpy ride.
Minnesota Timberwolves 250.0
The Timberwolves added Spanish sensation Ricky Rubio to the rotation. Rubio will not find life easy in the NBA due to the lack of talent in this team. He is a quality player but needs help if he is to blossom in Minnesota.
New Orleans Hornets 260.0
Superstar guard Chris Paul is desperate to leave New Orleans and that has had a detrimental effect on the rotation they will struggle whatever the outcome concerning Paul.
Sacramento Kings 300.0
This team will struggle again. They do not shoot the ball well and lack discipline. This is a recipe for disaster.
