Kentucky’s Loss to Georgetown Proves One Thing: They Need Denzel Aberdeen  Badly

Kentucky’s Loss to Georgetown Proves One Thing: They Need Denzel Aberdeen  Badly

Rupp Arena isn’t used to nights like this. The energy was there, the crowd was ready, but the Kentucky Wildcats just didn’t have it. Georgetown came in and punched them in the mouth, handing Mark Pope’s team an 84-70 loss that felt worse than the score suggested.

It’s only an exhibition, yes. It doesn’t count in the standings. But it revealed something that Kentucky fans and coaches alike can’t ignore  this team desperately needs Denzel Aberdeen.

The Florida transfer guard was held out for precautionary reasons due to a leg injury, but his absence was impossible to miss. Aberdeen isn’t just another guard on the roster  he’s the tempo-setter, the defensive pest, and the steadying presence that gives Kentucky its identity on both ends of the floor.

Without him, the offense was disjointed, slow, and turnover-prone. The Cats looked lost trying to get into their sets, and the Hoyas took full advantage. Georgetown’s guards got whatever they wanted, slashing into the paint and breaking down Kentucky’s perimeter defense repeatedly.

Against Purdue last week, Aberdeen was one of the main reasons Kentucky looked like a top-10 team. He frustrated Braden Smith, controlled the pace, and helped the Wildcats execute with poise against elite competition. Fast forward to Thursday night, and his absence told the entire story.

With Aberdeen and Jaland Lowe both sidelined, Kentucky had to lean heavily on Collin Chandler and freshman Jasper Johnson to handle the ball. The result? A rough night. The two combined for 18 points on 5-for-19 shooting with just four assists and seven turnovers. Their lack of rhythm and decision-making cost Kentucky possessions  and ultimately, the game’s flow.

It’s not an indictment of their talent; both Chandler and Johnson are capable. But they aren’t the same kind of guard Aberdeen is. He brings toughness, experience, and a feel for the game that can’t be taught in one offseason. When he’s on the floor, Kentucky looks composed. Without him, they look… young.

The most concerning part wasn’t just the offensive struggles. It was the lack of defensive edge something Pope’s teams pride themselves on. Aberdeen’s on-ball defense and ability to pressure without fouling are critical pieces to this roster’s success. Georgetown, to its credit, attacked relentlessly, exploiting the Cats’ inexperience and lack of communication.

The silver lining? It’s October. The loss doesn’t count, and the Wildcats have time to fix things. But it’s also a reality check. Mark Pope’s rotation may not be as deep as it seemed after the Purdue win. The difference between Kentucky at full strength and Kentucky without its top point guard is glaring.

Aberdeen may not lead the team in scoring this season, but his impact is undeniable. He makes everyone around him better  the wings get easier shots, the bigs get better looks inside, and the offense runs smoother. That’s what a true point guard does.

So while this loss stings, it might end up being the best thing for this group. It showed them their weakness before the real games begin. And it reminded everyone in Big Blue Nation just how valuable Denzel Aberdeen is.

Because if Kentucky wants to compete in the SEC and beyond, they’ll need him healthy  and on the floor  when it matters most.