Andrew Carr is motivated to overcome the ongoing back difficulties that have plagued him since early January. The fifth-year forward missed the Kentucky Wildcats’ Jan. 25 defeat to Vanderbilt and played only two minutes against Tennessee, but his minutes have increased recently, with 15 against Arkansas and 23 at Ole Miss.
Despite Kentucky’s troubles, Carr’s return is a welcome development. He was instrumental in the Wildcats’ early-season victory over Duke, and his ability to spread the floor and offer interior presence is still vital.
Against Ole Miss, he had 10 points on 3/3 shooting, four rebounds, and three assists without a turnover.
The real news is that Carr has had no setbacks as he continues to recuperate from his injuries.
“The best news is that he came out feeling just as good as he did the day before,” head coach Mark Pope said Thursday. “That is the most essential thing. I believe he was frustrated with his defensive work. I believe he made some pretty good offensive plays, including quick readings, plays for teammates, and some hard attacks at the rim.
“He’s coming. He’s going to get back to making a huge impact on our squad.”Pope remains focused on getting his roster healthy, with Lamont Butler making progress and Kerr Kriisa still working his way back. Kentucky’s depth will be challenged, but Carr’s sustained progress could provide a significant boost.
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