Tai Wynyard hopes to make Kentucky more physical; Thinks redshirting is best option

The much-anticipated arrival of Tai Wynyard is this week, but will he actually help the Kentucky Wildcats this season?

That depends on your definition of help. If that's bringing more physicality to a UK team that's looked like one of the softest squads John Calipari has had in Lexington, then your prayers may be answered.

In an interview with 3 News in New Zealand, Wynyard admitted he's heard all about this year's Wildcats not being tough enough, and he hopes he can bring some of that physicality his new teammates may be lacking.

"Hopefully, I can go over and make an impact on that," Wynyard said. "I’ve heard a lot of things that they’re not being physical enough and all that stuff, but hopefully, I can go over and help out any way I can."

However, if you're hoping Wynyard is someone who will actually play in games and give the Cats another body to bang in the paint, you may be disappointed to hear Wynyard thinks redshirting is his best option (and it is).

"I’m still deciding whether I’ll redshirt or not, if I’ll play," Wynyard admitted. "I think it would be better for me to redshirt because of the time I have to learn the plays and get into the system a lot easier. I’m still not sure on that, I’ll probably decide on that when I get over there in a few weeks."

Wynyard also admitted he's a bit nervous as he gets ready to embark on a life-changing journey in a new land.

"I'm kind of nervous," Wynyard admitted. "I think nerves come with it, ya know? But also I'm ready to get over there and just give it my all. It's been a long time coming. I've had as lot of time to prepare myself for it."

Again, expecting Wynyard to actually play in games this season and give the Cats meaningful minutes isn't fair, but having him to bang in the paint against Skal and other UK bigs in practice can certainly improve their toughness.

Be sure to check out the full interview.