With just four games remaining in the regular season, the Kentucky Wildcats are eagerly anticipating the return of two key players, Jaxson Robinson and Lamont Butler.
Head coach Mark Pope provided an encouraging update during his weekly call-in radio show on Monday evening, confirming that both guards have resumed limited practice sessions as they work their way back from injuries.
Robinson, who has been sidelined with a wrist injury since Kentucky’s victory over South Carolina on February 8, and Butler, who has been out with a shoulder injury since the Wildcats’ win against Tennessee on February 11, participated in what Pope described as “modified” practices earlier this week. While their involvement was limited, it marked a significant step forward in their recovery process.
“Lamont and Jaxson were both in practice—they had modified practice, which is a good thing,” Pope said. “Every day right now, it’s about evaluating how much of the practice they were able to get through. With both of them, we’re going to know so much more in the morning because it’s just, ‘How’s Jaxson’s wrist responding? How is Lamont’s shoulder responding?’”
The Wildcats remain cautious but optimistic, closely monitoring how each player’s body reacts to increased activity before determining their availability for upcoming games. Pope expressed satisfaction with their performances in practice, even with limitations, and emphasized the importance of how they respond the following day.
“It’s about how they respond the next day, and they were pretty functional in the limited work that they did today. Certainly, they’re both on the uptick,” Pope added. “We’re hopeful about both of them. I don’t know if either of them is going to be able to get to 100% health before the end of the season, but they’re making progress, so we’re hopeful.”
Kentucky faces a critical stretch of games, starting with a road matchup against Oklahoma on Wednesday, followed by a tough contest against Auburn. Pope remained noncommittal on whether Robinson or Butler would be available for these games but acknowledged that progress is being made.
“Lamont and Jaxson were both in practice today… a modified practice. We will know so much more in the morning with both of them,” Pope said.
This update offers encouragement to Kentucky fans, as it suggests that both players could return this week—if not for the Oklahoma game, then possibly for the Auburn matchup.
The absence of Robinson and Butler has been felt, as they bring critical playmaking, defensive intensity, and leadership to the Wildcats. Their potential return, even in a limited capacity, would provide a much-needed boost as the team looks to build momentum heading into the postseason.
If Kentucky hopes to make a deep run in March, having Robinson and Butler back on the court will be crucial. While they may not be at full strength before the regular season ends, the Wildcats will gladly welcome any contributions from their talented backcourt duo.
As the regular season winds down, all eyes are on their recovery process in the coming days to determine if and when they’ll be back on the floor.
