I have a "friend " that is a huge L*ker fan, and after much trash talking these are the bets I made with him. I would like your feedback and comments on the bets. I think they were no brainers.

Bet 1:Lakerswill not repeat as champions.

My reasoning. I believe if San Antonio is completely healthy (Parker,Duncan, Ginobli) plus the addition ofRichard Jefferson, Antonio Mcdyess,Theo Ratliffwill make them much improved and will win the West if Portland doesn't.

Bet 2: Blazers will win season series between them and the L*kers.

Well I admit I knew he wasn't aware that they only play 3 times this year and two of those games are played in Portland.

Bet 3: Blazers will get out of the first round of the playoffs.

The Blazers will be improved just fromGreg Odenimprovement. The experience they attained last year. The addition of Andre Miller. Our schedule is more favorable. and Denver, Utah, Phoenix, Memphis etc. did not really improve that much in the offseason.

So there it is, I may be delusional, or wishful but I did predict at least 52 wins last year. I beleive we will win the Northwest division and even have a legitimate shot at competing in the WCF.