Walter Clayton Jr. vs. Javon Small: WHO WINS OUT in Memphis? | iTalkHoops

Walter Clayton Jr. or Javon Small? Two young Memphis Grizzlies guards are competing to establish themselves in the NBA, but who will ultimately earn a place in the team's long-term plans? In today's Memphis Grizzlies player preview, Memphis X breaks down the competition between Walter Clayton Jr. and Javon Small entering the 2026-27 NBA season. I was a big fan of Walter Clayton Jr. during the 2025 NBA Draft process, but his rookie season raised some questions about his shooting. After arriving in Memphis, Clayton averaged 9.7 points and 5.7 assists while shooting just 30.7% from three-point range. Meanwhile, Javon Small exceeded expectations, averaging 9.7 points and 3.7 assists while shooting 42.3% from three during his rookie NBA season. He followed that up with an encouraging performance in the 2026 Las Vegas Summer League. With Scotty Pippen Jr., Ty Jerome, and Cam Spencer already competing for backcourt minutes, where do Clayton and Small fit? We examine their shooting, offensive potential, defensive limitations, G League development, and the contract situations that could influence their futures in Memphis. I still believe Clayton has greater long-term offensive upside, but Small has made a legitimate case for himself. If Clayton cannot rediscover his jump shot, this competition could look very different by the end of the season. Who do YOU believe has the brighter future with the Memphis Grizzlies? Let me know in the comments! Subscribe to I Talk Hoops for more Memphis Grizzlies player previews, NBA analysis, and coverage throughout the 2026-27 season. #WalterClaytonJr #JavonSmall #MemphisGrizzlies #NBA #ITalkHoops