Nets' leading scorer Thomas returning vs. Hornets

Brooklyn Nets guard Cam Thomas will return to the lineup against the Charlotte Hornets after missing nine games with an ankle injury, the team announced Thursday.

Thomas will be given a minutes restriction as he ramps up during his return, sources told the New York Post's Brian Lewis.

The third-year player was on a roll to begin the year, averaging a team-best 26.9 points per game on nearly 21 field-goal attempts a night.

Inserted into the starting lineup due to Cam Johnson's opening night injury, it's unclear where Thomas will slot into Brooklyn's lineup with the team coming off three straight victories.

In his 13 career starts, Thomas is averaging 29 points per game, compared to averaging just 8.5 in his 119 contests coming off the bench.