I won't be at the Warriors game tonight to see Monta Ellis' return -- family considerations. That's life.

But his return is fascinating. Some thought Ellis never would play for the Warriors again. He and his agent were ticked off about the suspension, the fine, the general treatment. And clearly the Ellis issue turned the Warriors ownership against Chris Mullin whom they perceived as too lenient.

If Ellis still can play, can make those fast cuts to the hoop, the Warriors will be better. A backcourt of Ellis and Crawford with Belinelli coming in off the bench is offensive dynamite. Not much defense but entertaining offense. The Warriors still need big men, but it's exciting to have an exciting backcourt.

A few weeks ago, Nelson said, in an ironic voice, he wouldn't play Ellis 30 minutes a game right off the bat. I hope Nelson keeps to that, doesn't change his mind out of desperation. Ellis had a serious injury and has not competed in a long time. Nelson should limit Ellis' minutes out of fairness to Ellis, bring him along slowly, let him work his way back to playing shape, not risk him.

Here's what you need to watch for: Can Ellis make those lightning fast cuts to the hoop that leave defenders standing still? Can he jump? Does he have the general explosion he used to have? His game is built on speed. He absolutely needs his speed. Here's hoping it's still there.