Walter Clayton Jr. will be sidelined for the Memphis Grizzlies' entire Salt Lake City Summer League slate due to a mild right knee sprain. The team will re-evaluate him before the Las Vegas Summer League starts on July 9. Clayton Jr.'s path to Memphis was distinctive, as he was selected 18th in the 2025 draft by Utah and then traded to the Grizzlies in February. He made a notable contribution in March with 14 assists against Indiana, the most by a Grizzlies rookie that season. Clayton Jr. finished his debut season with averages of 6.8 points, 2 rebounds, and 3.2 assists across both teams. The Grizzlies will have to wait to see Clayton Jr. play alongside other rookies, including Cameron Boozer. Boozer, the No. 3 overall pick, is still on track to make his professional debut against the Oklahoma City Thunder. With Clayton Jr. sidelined, the Grizzlies will rely on other players, including Cedric Coward, Taylor Hendricks, Javon Small, and Olivier-Maxence Prosper, to take on more roles. Memphis resumes play Monday against the Utah Jazz and then heads to Las Vegas for Summer League on July 9. The Grizzlies' performance in the Summer League will be crucial in preparing for the upcoming NBA season. Clayton Jr.'s injury is not serious, and he is expected to be back on the court soon. The Grizzlies are hopeful that he will be able to contribute to the team's success in the upcoming season. Clayton Jr.'s experience playing for the Grizzlies and the Jazz will be valuable in his development as a player. He has shown promise in his rookie season, and the Grizzlies are excited to see him grow and improve. The Summer League is an important opportunity for Clayton Jr. and other rookies to gain experience and develop their skills.