18Breakdown
Performance
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March 19, 2026
Won't start Wednesday
Clayton won't start Wednesday's game against Denver.
Analysis
With Ty Jerome (shoulder) back in the lineup after a one-game absence, Clayton will retreat to the second unit. The rookie first-rounder has averaged 9.4 points, 6.4 assists, 1.4 rebounds and 1.0 steals in 24.8 minutes per contest over his last five appearances off the bench.
March 17, 2026
Logs 26 minutes in return
Clayton registered 12 points (5-11 FG, 2-5 3Pt), two rebounds, seven assists and one block over 26 minutes during Monday's 132-107 loss to the Bulls.
Analysis
Clayton returned from a three-game absence as a result of an ankle injury, slotting straight into the starting lineup. While it wasn't the most productive night, Clayton did manage to hand out at least six assists for the fifth straight game. Memphis' guard rotation continues to be highly unpredictable, making fantasy value almost impossible to project. With that said, when healthy, it does appear as though Clayton will feature on most nights, having logged at least 24 minutes in six of his past seven appearances.
March 16, 2026
Entering starting five
Clayton is starting Monday's game against the Bulls.
Analysis
Clayton will join the starting lineup after missing three straight games due to a right ankle sprain. He starred as a playmaker in his last start March 1 against Indiana, finishing with 14 assists in 34 minutes.
March 16, 2026
Cleared to play Monday
Clayton (ankle) is available for Monday's game against the Bulls.
Analysis
Clayton will shed a questionable tag due to a right ankle sprain and suit up after being inactive for the previous three games. In his past five appearances, the rookie is averaging 8.6 points, 8.2 assists, 1.8 steals and 1.6 rebounds in 26.4 minutes per contest. With Ty Jerome (shoulder) ruled out, Clayton should see a solid amount of playing time in Monday's contest.
March 15, 2026
Questionable for Monday
Clayton (ankle) is questionable to play Monday in Chicago.
Analysis
Clayton has missed the past three games, but there's a chance he could get back out there Monday. If Clayton is cleared to return, he could see quality minutes with Ty Jerome (shoulder) not expected to play.
March 13, 2026
Won't play Friday
Clayton (ankle) is out for Friday's game in Detroit.
Analysis
This will be the third straight game on the inactive list for Clayton, and for now, he should be considered questionable for Monday's game in Chicago. Cam Spencer should see quality minutes Friday night with Memphis' backcourt extremely banged up.
March 13, 2026
Unlikely to play Friday
Clayton (ankle) is doubtful for Friday's game against the Pistons.
Analysis
Clayton is expected to miss a third straight game due to a right ankle sprain. In Clayton's presumed absence, Cam Spencer and Javon Small should see solid minutes off the bench behind Ty Jerome and Cedric Coward on Friday.
March 12, 2026
Out for Thursday
Clayton (ankle) has been ruled out for Thursday's game versus the Mavericks.
Analysis
Clayton was listed as doubtful for Thursday's game, so it's not surprising to see him hit the sidelines for the first game of this back-to-back set. Cedric Coward (knee), Ty Jerome (calf), Scotty Pippen (toe) and Cam Spencer (back) will join Clayton on the inactive list for Thursday's game, so Javon Small and Jahmai Mashack should get all the run they can handle. For now, Clayton should be considered questionable for Friday's game in Detroit.
