Not since Shaq and Kobe were together has there been so much talk about the NBA champions repeating. In a league where dynasties were once commonplace, the last six champions have been unable to hold on to their titles. But if any team has experience at repeating as NBA champions it's the Boston Celtics, as no franchise has done it more. And it's looking like their toughest opposition this season will come from the Lakers and the Rockets.
The Celtics have done little to improve over the offseason. The loss of James Posey could prove to be significant on defense over the course of the season. His gritty play and ability to shut down key players like Kobe Bryant will be missed during their playoff run. The Celtics could have some depth issues if they suffer too many injuries throughout the season, but the big three of Allen, Garnett, and Pierce should be able to make a run at another title. The Celtics opened at +300, and they continue to hold those odds heading into the season.
The Los Angeles Lakers were dominated by the Celtics in last year's NBA Finals, but the offseason has produced a couple of changes that could make a big difference this year. The only piece of last year's picture to leave was fan-favorite Ronny Turiaf, but he wasn't going to see very many minutes anyway in the already crowded Lakers frontcourt. The addition of the "Chinese Magic Johnson" Sun Yue to the lineup has the potential to blossom into something special, but the rookie is likely to be limited in playing time with Phil Jackson as his coach. The odds on the Lakers winning the NBA Championship are +325.
The Houston Rockets made a big move over the summer to obtain Ron Artest from Sacramento. Bobby Jackson, Donte Greene, and a 2009 first-round draft pick were sent to Sacramento in exchange for Artest, Patrick Ewing Jr., and Sean Singletary. Artest gives the Rockets a scoring punch to go along with the excellent defensive skills he brings with him. Add that to Tracy McGrady, Yao Ming, Shane Battier, and a good supporting cast that includes sharpshooter Brent Barry and you've got a legitimate championship contender. The Rockets are currently getting +900 to win it all in '09.
The other teams to consider taking action on to win the championship are the San Antonio Spurs and Detroit Pistons, who are both at +800. The New Orleans Hornets are at +900, and the Cleveland Cavaliers and Utah Jazz are at +1000.
