Lakers Acquire Steve Nash & Las Vegas Takes Notice

When the Lakers traded for Steve Nash earlier this month, it did not take Las Vegas oddsmakers long to respond.

Los Angeles had been posted at 12-1 to win the NBA title next season, but dropped to 8-1 after news of the Nash acquisition was announced.

Defending champion Miami is the NBA favorite at 2-1 odds (down from 3-1 after inking Ray Allen), followed by the Thunder at 3-1 and the Bulls at an inflated 7-1. 

Chicago seems quite overrated by these odds supplied by pregame.com.

The Suns went from 60-1 to 100-,1 after losing Nash, while the Nets dropped from 100-1 to 40-1, after signing guards Deron Williams and Joe Johnson. 

San Antonio ranks fifth at 10-1, while the Celtics are an intriguing pick at 20-1, as are the Pacers.

The New York Knicks came in at 30-1, with the rudderless Orlando Magic posted at 40-1.  

If you prefer long shots, there are always Detroit and Golden State at 130-1, ahead of Charlotte at 150-1.