Yesterday, the Memphis Grizzlies made one of their most significant trades in franchise history, sending Jaren Jackson Jr. to the Utah Jazz. Alongside Jackson Jr., the Grizzlies also sent Jock Landale, John Konchar, and Vince Williams Jr. to Utah in exchange for three first-round picks, Taylor Hendricks, Georges Niang, Kyle Anderson, and Walter Clayton Jr.
Out of the players the Grizzlies received, Clayton Jr. is arguably the most intriguing piece of them all. Walter Clayton Jr. made a name for himself in his senior season at Florida, where his heroics led the Gators to winning the 2025 NCAA Tournament. He was eventually selected 18th overall by the Washington Wizards before being traded to Utah for the draft rights of Jamir Watkins and Will Riley.
It is easy to understand why the Grizzlies like him
A late riser in college, Clayton Jr. averaged 18.3 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 4.2 assists while starting every single game for the defending champions. He also made 38% of his threes and recorded a 60.2 TS%. His impressive shot-making and clutch ability in Florida's championship run added to his intrigue as a draft prospect.
However, it has been a quiet rookie season for Walter Clayton Jr. So far he is averaging 6.8 points, 2 rebounds, and 3.2 assists in 18 minutes per game. While that production might not stand out, he faced competition with rising star Keyonte George and Isaiah Collier. With the Grizzlies likely to trade Ja Morant soon, Clayton Jr. could have increased opportunities despite Ty Jerome and Scotty Pippen Jr. likely remaining in the mix.
Clayton Jr. is the second 2025 first-round pick on the team
The Grizzlies made an ambitious effort to trade up and select Cedric Coward last summer. So far, that move has proven to be worth it for the Grizzlies, as Coward is set to become a key building block for the future. With Clayton Jr. being selected just 7 spots after Coward, the Grizzlies are in a prime spot to capitalize on the 2025 NBA Draft even further.
As the Grizzlies head into another rebuild, it will be essential to bring in a good mix of upside and proven winners. Being the #1 option of last year's national champion team, Clayton Jr. not only has an NBA-ready offensive game, but his proven ability to win at the college level could also help a Grizzlies team looking for a spark to begin the rebuild.
With one day left before the trade deadline, the Grizzlies will likely trade Ja Morant and possibly make additional moves for future assets. While Jaren Jackson Jr. was a beloved player in franchise history, the Grizzlies got an intriguing return. Out of all the players coming back to Memphis, Walter Clayton Jr. is arguably the most intriguing one.