Seattle is expecting the return of Nick Collison, who missed three games with a right nasal fracture, and Kurt Thomas will be in the lineup when the Sonics take on the Clippers at Key Arena.

Collison will wear a protective facemask tonight and said it feels better than when he broke his nose in 2005.

Collison's return helps the Sonics not only because the team needs to be physical inside against Chris Kaman, who is averaging 18.7 points and 14.1 rebounds, but to help Chris Wilcox. Carlesimo said he's limiting Wilcox's minutes because of his lingering left ankle injury.

While the inside is strengthening, the Sonics' roster continues to suffer injuries. Starting point guard Delonte West couldn't complete practice Tuesday due to a plantar fasciitis flare-up in his right foot. He's a game-time decision tonight.

If West is unable to play, Carlesimo will return to starting Earl Watson with Mickael Gelabale or Damien Wilkins as backups.