Thomas indicated earlier in the week that he was targeting Friday’s game for his return from an absence that has spanned nearly a month, but the doubtful designation implies he’ll likely be sidelined once again. Even once Thomas is cleared to return from a fractured left orbital, his extended time off won’t guarantee him a spot in coach Jeff Hornacek’s rotation, as rookie Mindaugas Kuzminskas has stepped up to offer quality production as the main backup to Carmelo Anthony.