Despite the injuries and inconsistencies, that have plagued the Los Angeles Lakers this season, they are still the sport betting favorite to make it to the NBA Finals this season. Superstar Kobe Bryant and starting center Andrew Bynum have both spent time on the bench leading in to their opening round series with the Oklahoma City Thunder, but that didn't make the Lakers look any less explosive when those two made their appearances in a Game One 87-79 win. Bynum and Pau Gasol both posted double-doubles in that win, and were able to control play in the post.

This is the same team that won the NBA championship odds series only one year ago, and since then, has actually improved. No matter how banged up Bryant is, its still Kobe that will have the ball in his hand with the game on the line, and there is no player in the league that is better with the ball in his hands in pressure situations than the man wearing number 24 for the purple and gold. Coach Phil Jackson has done this dance so many times he has all the steps memorized already, and will now how to handle the playing time of his stars, and when to go to his bench to ensure the Lakers are healthy as they go deeper in to the playoffs. That will make Los Angeles hit their peak right when it matters the most, which is why they will represent the Western conference once again in this year's finals.

For NBA betting enthusiasts looking to lay their money down on one team to win this year's NBA Championship, look no further than the squad that finished with the best record in the association during the regular season when you punch your ticket and bet NBA finals.

The Cleveland Cavaliers have emerged as a team not only primed to reach the final, but to take the first NBA title in their sportsbook history. The Cavaliers pushed the Orlando Magic to six games in the Eastern conference final a season ago, and since have taken the necessary steps to ensure they don't fall short again. Cleveland added Shaquille O'Neal in the middle to hold fort against Dwight Howard should those teams meet again, and can you imagine the motivation "Big Diesel" will have if the Cavaliers face the Los Angeles Lakers in the finals? Don't overlook the addition of Antawn Jamison as yet another inside weapon that can help play off James when the King once again elevates his game to another level come postseason time.

Speaking of the Lakers, injuries and inconsistent play are the two biggest reasons why Los Angeles will not repeat. Despite an improved roster on paper, the Lakers will have a much tougher road to the finals through the Western conference if they are to make it all the way, and with the Cavaliers getting fully healthy just in time for round one, Cleveland will be the fresher and hungrier team in the championship series.

NBA Championship Pick: Cleveland