A well-known point guard appears to be attracting Kentucky’s early attention via the transfer portal. Matt Jones of KSR reports that when the portal formally opens on Tuesday, the Kentucky staff will have a Zoom conversation with LSU transfer point guard Dedan Thomas Jr.
Through the portal, we are beginning to get a decent early idea of who Kentucky will be targeting, and it appears that there is a lot of interest in Thomas. Due to a persistent ankle injury, Dedan Thomas Jr. only participated in 16 games during the previous season. The 6-1 guard missed the Tigers’ first five SEC games before making a three-game comeback and missing the remaining games. This off-season, the injury necessitated surgery, but don’t let that take away from how excellent he is.
There’s a reason why his absence caused LSU to suffer greatly this season. In almost all of his games, including two 20-point performances, Thomas scored in double figures. The 6-1 guard can really dish the ball in addition to being excellent at going to the hoop. Thomas established himself as a legitimate playmaking point guard with three games with ten or more assists. LSU had a 12-1 record going into conference play prior to his injury, but the Tigers’ season was ultimately ruined. They ended the season with a 15-17 record as Kentucky defeated them 87-82 to eliminate them from the SEC Tournament.
Thomas is currently searching for a new residence where he can truly shine and demonstrate his abilities. The aspect of injuries is intriguing. Given what transpired with Jaland Lowe and his persistent injury, Kentucky supporters might be a little afraid, and it’s understandable. However, it might pay off handsomely if he stays healthy, which is one of the reasons Kentucky appears to be showing such strong early interest. Although there are undoubtedly other names that are currently being considered as point guard targets, Thomas is probably at the top of the list at the moment.
After the summit ends on Tuesday, we’ll see how the interest develops. Mark Pope and the Kentucky coaches have a busy few weeks ahead of them as they start their search for a new starting point guard.
