Los Angeles Lakers vs. Cleveland Cavaliers
Free Pick: Los Angeles Lakers -5.5 (-110 odds)
Fri December 25th 2009 5:00p
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As much respect as we have for LeBron James, who has basically made the Cleveland Cavaliers what they are virtually by himself, we look for the Los Angeles Lakers to prove they are the best team in the NBA this season.

The Lake Show is 23-4 overall including 16-2 here at home, where the Lakers are winning by an average of +10.3 points per game. Sure, the offense is as good as it has always been, as they are averaging 103.6 points per game overall and 105.0 points at home. However, the addition of Ron Artest this season has added a toughness to the defense, further separating the Lakers from the rest of the league.

Now the Cavaliers have won seven of their last eight games including going 2-1 on the Western trip so far. However, this is a statement game and a possible NBA Finals preview, so Cleveland is certain to see the Lakers A game here. It is questionable whether or not the Cavs are even the best team in the East, as the Celtics and Magic are in that conversation, and we certainly feel that Cleveland is a couple of notches below the Lakers when both teams are at their peak.

This was evident even last season, when the Lakers were the only team to win a meaningful game at Cleveland the entire regular season and they blew the Cavaliers out by 17 points here in LA. Look for another double-digit Lakers win here.

NBA Free Pick: Lakers -5.5 (-110)