The big news in recent weeks is that Manu Ginobili is out for the season with a stress fracture in his right ankle. But not far behind that injury news is the fact that Tim Duncan has been battling sore knees. While Ginobili might be more popular, Duncan is the No. 1 reason the team has won four NBA championships. If his knees continue to bother him, the team is in big trouble.

Experience

The Spurs have the been-there-done-that attitude. Duncan, Tony Parker, Bruce Bowen, Michael Finley and Fabricio Oberto have all played big roles on championship teams for the Spurs. And Gregg Popovich has coached each of the Spurs' title teams. If they do lose, it's not likely to be because of nerves.

Star power

While losing Ginobili certainly hurts, the Spurs still have both of their All-Stars from this season - Duncan and Parker. That one-two punch is still formidable and is the envy of many teams around the league. Parker is having the best season of his career, and Duncan will average a double-double for the 12th straight season; as you probably guessed, this is Duncan's 12th season.

Important addition

When the Spurs added power forward Drew Gooden earlier this season, it was viewed by many as the type of pickup that could help lift the team to its fifth title. While it's been overlooked in some circles, Gooden is starting to look more comfortable with the Spurs and is routinely scoring in double figures. Having a big man with his skills down low to help Duncan could be crucial for the Spurs in the postseason.

Tough road

Something the Spurs won't have in their favor is a favorable path to the title. They don't have the league's best record, and that means they won't have home-court advantage if they play teams such as the Lakers and the Cavaliers. How much does that matter? After the Cavaliers' win April 13 over Boston, Cleveland was 39-1 at home.