Kentucky head coach Mark Pope provided an update on the injuries of key players Jaxson Robinson and Lamont Butler as the Wildcats continue to navigate a critical stretch of the season. Both players have been sidelined, leaving Kentucky shorthanded in the backcourt. While their return timeline remains uncertain, Pope shared some encouraging signs of progress. “Lamont is going to get a little bit of live action today – modified,” Pope said. “Jax is going to be doing some skill stuff today.” While that doesn’t necessarily indicate an immediate return, it’s a step in the right direction for both players. The Wildcats have had to adjust without them, but Pope emphasized that the team remains focused on competing with whoever is available. “Certainly, we’re missing pieces. We would love to get them back,” Pope said. “We hope we get them back at some point, but in the meantime, we’re going to go compete with what we have and we’re going to do it well.” The absence of Butler and Robinson has been felt on both ends of the floor. Butler, known for his playmaking and defensive ability, has been one of Kentucky’s most reliable guards this season. In 19 games, he is averaging 12.5 points, 4.6 assists, and 2.8 rebounds per game while shooting career highs from the field (50.9%) and from three (38.5%). His ability to create shots for himself and his teammates has been instrumental in Kentucky’s offensive system. Robinson, meanwhile, has been a major scoring threat, ranking second on the team with 13.3 points per game. In 23 games played, he’s also contributed 3.7 rebounds and 1.7 assists per contest. His ability to stretch the floor and knock down perimeter shots has made him a key asset, and his absence has forced the Wildcats to adjust their offensive approach. With both players progressing in their recoveries, Kentucky hopes to have them back sooner rather than later. However, Pope and his staff are taking a cautious approach, ensuring that both Butler and Robinson return at full strength rather than rushing back prematurely. In the meantime, the Wildcats will continue to lean on their depth, with players like Travis Perry, Trent Noah, and Collin Chandler stepping up to fill the gaps. As the season enters its final stretch, getting Butler and Robinson back could be crucial for Kentucky’s postseason aspirations to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament, which has not happened since the 2018-2019 season.
