Celtics' Thomas might return for game against Hornets (The Associated Press)

BOSTON -- Back on Oct. 29, the Boston Celtics scored a 104-98 victory over the Hornets in Charlotte.

Isaiah Thomas had 24 points and seven assists in the win, while Kemba Walker delivered 29 points in the loss.

Friday night, the teams face each other for the first time since -- and there is a chance neither will play in the rematch at TD Garden.

While Thomas, who leads Boston with 26 points and 6.2 assists per games, hopes to return from a four-game absence with a groin strain, word came down Thursday that Walker and his 22.6 points and 5.2 assists will sit this one out because of a personal issue. He will rejoin the team for the game in Atlanta Saturday night for the final game of a five-game…