The selection occurring near the conclusion of the second round in professional basketball’s annual player selection event represents a unique juncture. Players chosen at this position often face an uphill battle to secure roster spots and carve out meaningful careers within the league. Their development paths frequently involve demonstrating exceptional work ethic and adaptability to overcome the perceived limitations associated with their draft position.
Historically, players acquired at this stage have presented a mixed bag of outcomes. While some have defied expectations and become valuable contributors to their respective teams, many others have found their careers limited to short stints or roles outside of the primary rotation. Success stories emerging from this draft slot often highlight the critical role of effective player development programs and the individual’s commitment to continuous improvement. The relative low cost associated with acquiring these players makes them attractive, high-risk, high-reward investments for teams seeking to add depth and potential to their rosters.
Subsequent sections will explore specific examples of players selected at this position, analyze common characteristics of those who have achieved success, and examine the strategic considerations involved in selecting a player at this late stage of the draft process. Further analysis will involve team strategies and player development.
1. Roster Spot Competition
Roster spot competition represents a significant hurdle for individuals selected late in the NBA draft, particularly at the 55th pick. Securing a place on a team’s active roster requires surpassing established veterans, higher-drafted players, and other aspiring NBA talents, presenting a complex challenge for these late-round selections.
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Guaranteed Contracts
Players chosen at the 55th selection typically lack the security of guaranteed contracts that often accompany higher draft picks. This necessitates a rapid demonstration of value during training camp and pre-season games to earn a roster spot, placing intense pressure on the player to outperform expectations and prove their immediate contribution to the team’s success.
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Team Needs and Fit
The existing composition of a team’s roster plays a crucial role in determining the likelihood of a 55th pick securing a position. If the team has depth at the player’s position or already possesses multiple developmental projects, the competition for a spot becomes significantly more challenging, requiring the player to exhibit unique skills or a strong fit within the team’s system to stand out.
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Veteran Presence
Established veterans often hold considerable sway in roster decisions due to their experience, leadership qualities, and familiarity with the team’s system. A late-round pick must demonstrate exceptional talent or a willingness to embrace a specific role to displace a veteran from the roster, requiring a display of maturity and adaptability beyond their years.
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Two-Way Contracts and G-League Affiliation
The prevalence of two-way contracts and G-League affiliations provides teams with alternative options for developing late-round picks. A player selected at the 55th pick may initially be assigned to the G-League to hone their skills and gain experience, requiring them to excel at that level to earn a call-up to the NBA roster and a legitimate opportunity to compete for a permanent spot.
The confluence of these factorsthe lack of guaranteed contracts, existing team dynamics, veteran presence, and alternative development pathwayscollectively shape the intense roster spot competition faced by players selected at the 55th pick. Overcoming these obstacles requires a combination of talent, work ethic, adaptability, and a degree of good fortune to secure a foothold in the NBA.
2. Developmental Potential
For selections made late in the NBA draft, specifically the 55th pick, developmental potential assumes paramount importance. With limited immediate impact expected, teams prioritize players demonstrating untapped skills, physical attributes conducive to growth, and a capacity for rapid learning.
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Raw Athleticism and Physical Tools
Scouts often target individuals possessing exceptional physical characteristicsheight, wingspan, speed, agilityeven if current skill sets are rudimentary. These traits provide a foundation upon which coaches and trainers can build, potentially molding a player into a valuable asset. Examples include players with exceptional leaping ability but limited shooting range, or those with imposing size needing refinement in post moves. The focus rests on whether these raw tools can be honed and directed toward NBA-level proficiency.
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Skill Set Trainability and Adaptability
The ability to learn new skills and adapt to different roles significantly influences a player’s developmental ceiling. Teams assess a prospect’s demonstrated progress during pre-draft workouts and past performances, seeking evidence of a willingness to adapt their game based on coaching and feedback. Indicators of trainability, such as improvements in shooting mechanics or defensive positioning, are crucial considerations when evaluating players selected at the 55th pick.
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Basketball IQ and Intangibles
Beyond physical attributes and trainable skills, a player’s understanding of the game, decision-making ability, and intangible qualities such as work ethic and leadership influence their developmental trajectory. Players demonstrating high basketball IQ can quickly grasp complex offensive and defensive schemes, while a strong work ethic ensures consistent effort toward improvement. These intangible assets can often compensate for perceived limitations in physical talent.
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Organizational Resources and Development Programs
A team’s commitment to player development significantly impacts the realization of a late-round pick’s potential. Teams with robust G-League affiliates, dedicated coaching staff, and individualized training programs provide a more conducive environment for growth. The presence of experienced veterans willing to mentor younger players also contributes to a more effective developmental process. Selection at the 55th pick is therefore intertwined with the resources a team allocates to nurturing raw talent.
These facetsathleticism, trainability, IQ, and organizational supportcollectively determine the developmental ceiling of a player selected at the 55th pick. Teams gamble on untapped potential, hoping that a combination of raw talent and dedicated development will yield a contributor exceeding initial expectations.
3. Trade Asset Value
The value of a draft selection, particularly the 55th pick, extends beyond the potential of the player chosen. It also encompasses its utility as a trade asset. While not possessing the allure of higher selections, the 55th pick can be a component in facilitating trades, offering teams flexibility in roster construction and strategic maneuvering.
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Salary Cap Implications
Acquiring the rights to a player selected at the 55th pick often involves a minimal salary commitment, particularly in the short term. This low financial burden makes the pick attractive in trades, allowing teams to balance salary considerations while acquiring potential talent. Teams seeking to shed salary may find the 55th pick a viable option for incentivizing the acceptance of a less desirable contract. Furthermore, combining the pick with a player on an expiring contract can create a package that offers both immediate cap relief and future potential for the acquiring team.
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Package Deals and Aggregate Value
The 55th pick rarely holds sufficient value on its own to acquire established NBA players. Its primary function is to enhance the attractiveness of larger trade packages. By combining the pick with other assets, such as future second-round selections, young players with limited playing time, or cash considerations, teams can create a more compelling offer. The 55th pick thus serves as a supplementary element, increasing the perceived value of the overall trade and potentially swaying the decision-making process of the opposing team.
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Future Asset Accumulation
Teams may choose to trade the 55th pick not to acquire immediate talent but to accumulate future assets. Trading the pick for a future second-round selection or cash considerations provides long-term flexibility. This strategy is often employed by rebuilding teams prioritizing draft capital and long-term development over immediate competitiveness. Accumulating these assets allows for greater optionality in future trades or draft scenarios.
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Strategic Flexibility and Optionality
Even if a team ultimately intends to use the 55th pick, simply possessing it provides strategic flexibility. The pick can be dangled as trade bait leading up to the draft, potentially inducing another team to offer a more enticing package. Furthermore, the uncertainty surrounding late-round picks can create perceived value, as some teams may overestimate the potential of available prospects. This perceived value can be leveraged to secure a more favorable trade outcome.
The trade asset value associated with the 55th pick lies not in its guaranteed production but in its utility as a flexible component in larger transactions. Teams leverage this pick to manage salary cap constraints, enhance trade packages, accumulate future assets, and maintain strategic optionality within the complex landscape of NBA player movement.
4. Positional Need Fulfillment
The utilization of the 55th pick in the NBA draft for positional need fulfillment represents a strategic approach often employed by teams with established cores or limited roster flexibility. Rather than prioritizing the “best available player,” teams at this stage may target individuals who address specific weaknesses or complement existing strengths within the team’s structure.
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Targeted Skill Sets
Teams may identify specific skill deficiencies within their roster and seek to address them with the 55th pick. For example, a team lacking perimeter shooting may target a player with a proven track record as a three-point specialist, even if that player’s overall athleticism or defensive capabilities are less developed. Similarly, a team struggling with rebounding may prioritize a physically imposing player with a knack for securing rebounds, regardless of their offensive limitations. This approach prioritizes immediate utility in a specific area over overall potential.
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Complementary Role Players
The 55th pick can be used to select players who excel in complementary roles alongside established stars. A team with a dominant scorer may seek a defensive-minded player capable of guarding multiple positions, allowing the star to focus on offensive output. Alternatively, a team with a skilled playmaker may target a reliable catch-and-shoot option to capitalize on scoring opportunities created by the playmaker. These role players contribute to team success by fulfilling specific needs and enhancing the effectiveness of the team’s core players.
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Insurance Against Injury or Departure
Teams may use the 55th pick to acquire players who can serve as insurance against potential injuries or departures of key contributors. Selecting a player at a position of strength provides a fallback option if a starter is sidelined due to injury or leaves the team via free agency. While the player may not immediately contribute, their presence provides depth and mitigates the impact of unforeseen circumstances, ensuring continued competitiveness.
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Long-Term Strategic Planning
Positional need fulfillment via the 55th pick can also be part of a long-term strategic plan. Teams may identify a future need and select a player with the potential to develop into a starting-caliber contributor over time. This approach requires patience and a commitment to player development, as the player may not be ready to contribute immediately. However, it allows teams to proactively address future roster needs and avoid relying solely on free agency or trades to fill those gaps.
These considerations highlight the multifaceted nature of positional need fulfillment in the context of the 55th pick. While the odds of finding a star at this stage are low, teams can strategically utilize the pick to address specific weaknesses, complement existing strengths, and prepare for future roster needs.
5. International Prospects
The intersection of international prospects and the 55th pick in the NBA draft represents a strategic area for teams seeking untapped potential and cost-effective talent acquisition. Due to varied scouting coverage and differing valuation models, international players available at this stage can present unique opportunities for teams willing to invest in development.
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Scouting Asymmetry and Information Advantage
NBA scouting resources are not uniformly distributed across the globe. Teams with established international scouting networks possess an information advantage, potentially identifying undervalued players overlooked by organizations with less extensive reach. A player excelling in a smaller European league, for instance, might be available at the 55th pick despite possessing NBA-caliber skills due to limited exposure. This asymmetry allows informed teams to capitalize on market inefficiencies.
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Draft-and-Stash Strategy
The 55th pick is frequently utilized to select international players who may not be immediately ready to contribute to an NBA roster. This “draft-and-stash” approach allows teams to secure the rights to a prospect while the player continues to develop professionally overseas. This strategy provides teams with future options, allowing them to monitor the player’s progress without committing immediate roster space or resources. Examples include players remaining in EuroLeague or other international competitions to refine their skills before transitioning to the NBA.
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Contractual Flexibility and Cost Control
International prospects drafted at the 55th pick often come with greater contractual flexibility than their domestic counterparts. Their existing contracts with international teams may delay their arrival in the NBA, allowing teams to manage salary cap constraints and roster composition. Furthermore, these players may be more willing to accept lower initial salaries, providing cost control benefits for teams operating under tight budget restrictions. This financial flexibility makes them attractive late-round targets.
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Cultural Adjustment and Development Curve
The development curve for international players often differs from that of domestic players due to cultural adjustment and adaptation to the NBA style of play. Teams must be prepared to invest in resources to support these players, including language assistance, cultural mentoring, and individualized training programs. Understanding and addressing these unique challenges is crucial for maximizing the potential of international prospects selected at the 55th pick.
These facets highlight the strategic considerations involved in selecting international prospects at the 55th pick. While risks associated with cultural adjustment and delayed impact exist, the potential for uncovering undervalued talent and achieving cost-effective roster construction makes this approach a viable option for many NBA teams. Successful implementation requires robust scouting networks, a commitment to player development, and an understanding of the unique challenges faced by international players transitioning to the NBA.
6. Team Fit Analysis
The evaluation of team fit constitutes a critical component in assessing the potential success of any draft selection, particularly for those made late in the process, such as the 55th pick. Given the limited resources and developmental time typically invested in these selections, a player’s ability to seamlessly integrate into the existing team structure and culture becomes paramount. A mismatch between a player’s skillset, personality, and a team’s system can significantly hinder their development and ultimately limit their contributions. For example, a team predicated on fast-paced transition offense might struggle to integrate a player primarily suited to a deliberate, half-court style, regardless of the player’s individual talent. Similarly, a team with strong veteran leadership might find it challenging to mentor a player resistant to coaching or lacking in maturity.
Effective team fit analysis involves a comprehensive evaluation of various factors, including the player’s positional needs relative to the existing roster, their compatibility with the team’s offensive and defensive schemes, their potential to contribute to team chemistry, and their willingness to accept a defined role. Consider the case of a team with established scoring options prioritizing defensive intensity and rebounding. A player selected at the 55th pick demonstrating those attributes, even if lacking significant offensive polish, would represent a more valuable acquisition than a purely offensive-minded player who does not align with the team’s strategic priorities. This approach maximizes the likelihood of the player earning playing time and contributing to team success, despite their late-round selection.
In conclusion, team fit analysis should not be considered a secondary concern when evaluating potential selections at the 55th pick. Its influence on a player’s development, integration, and ultimate contribution cannot be overstated. Teams that prioritize this analysis are more likely to identify undervalued players who can exceed expectations and provide meaningful contributions, even in limited roles. The synergy between a player’s attributes and a team’s needs often determines whether a late-round pick blossoms into a valuable asset or fades into obscurity, underscoring the practical significance of thorough team fit assessment.
7. Injury History Review
Injury history review assumes amplified significance when evaluating prospects for the 55th pick in the NBA draft. The inherent risks associated with late-round selections, coupled with limited guaranteed contracts, necessitate a meticulous assessment of a player’s medical background. Teams often balance potential upside against the probability of recurring or debilitating injuries, understanding that even a minor pre-existing condition can derail a player’s development and impede their ability to contribute. For example, a player with a history of stress fractures may present a higher risk, as the increased physical demands of the NBA season could exacerbate the condition, leading to prolonged absences and diminished performance. The relatively low investment in the 55th pick does not negate the importance of mitigating such risks through comprehensive medical due diligence.
The impact of injury history can significantly alter a player’s draft stock, pushing them lower than their perceived talent level might otherwise suggest. A player with a clean bill of health but lesser-demonstrated skills might be favored over a more talented player with a concerning injury history. This strategic decision is driven by the pragmatic recognition that availability and reliability are crucial assets, particularly for players operating on the margins of NBA rosters. Real-life instances demonstrate this phenomenon; promising players with histories of knee or back problems often slip in the draft due to team concerns regarding long-term durability. A comprehensive injury history review, including consultations with team physicians and independent specialists, is therefore a critical component of the pre-draft evaluation process.
In conclusion, injury history review serves as a crucial risk mitigation strategy when assessing prospects for the 55th pick. Teams meticulously weigh the potential rewards against the inherent risks associated with selecting players with pre-existing medical conditions. The practical significance of this assessment lies in its capacity to inform strategic decision-making, helping teams make informed choices that balance talent, potential, and the likelihood of sustained availability and contribution. This careful balancing act is often the deciding factor in determining whether a late-round pick becomes a valuable asset or a roster casualty.
8. Contract Flexibility
Contract flexibility constitutes a significant advantage associated with acquiring players selected at the 55th pick in the NBA draft. These selections typically do not command substantial guaranteed salaries, affording teams greater latitude in managing their salary cap and roster composition. This flexibility arises from the reduced expectation of immediate impact and the understanding that these players often require developmental time. A team may, for instance, structure a non-guaranteed contract, allowing it to evaluate the player’s progress during training camp and preseason without incurring a long-term financial commitment. This contrasts sharply with higher draft picks who often receive fully guaranteed contracts, irrespective of their immediate contribution.
The utility of contract flexibility extends beyond immediate cost savings. Teams can utilize the 55th pick’s relatively low salary commitment as a trade asset, packaging the player with other assets to facilitate larger transactions. This ability to create tradeable packages enhances a team’s maneuverability in the trade market, allowing it to acquire established players or future draft capital. Furthermore, the contract flexibility associated with these picks enables teams to maintain financial flexibility for potential free agency acquisitions. A team nearing the salary cap threshold may prioritize acquiring players on non-guaranteed or partially guaranteed contracts to retain the ability to pursue higher-profile free agents in subsequent offseasons. The New Orleans Pelicans’ acquisition of Herbert Jones (35th pick but similar flexibility dynamics) who outplayed his draft position, demonstrated the value of having cost-controlled players on the roster, allowing them greater spending freedom elsewhere.
In summary, the contract flexibility inherent in acquiring players at the 55th pick provides teams with strategic advantages related to salary cap management, trade asset creation, and free agency pursuits. This flexibility empowers teams to make informed roster decisions and optimize their financial resources, contributing to overall team building efficiency. While the on-court impact of players selected at this stage may be uncertain, the financial flexibility they provide is a tangible asset that can benefit a team’s long-term strategic objectives.
9. G-League Utilization
The G-League serves as a crucial developmental platform for players selected late in the NBA draft, particularly those chosen at the 55th pick. Given the challenges associated with securing immediate roster spots and consistent playing time at the NBA level, assignment to the G-League provides a structured environment for skill refinement, tactical adaptation, and physical conditioning. This utilization represents a strategic investment by NBA teams, aimed at maximizing the long-term potential of these late-round selections. The cause-and-effect relationship is clear: limited NBA opportunities necessitate G-League exposure to foster growth, which, in turn, potentially leads to future NBA contributions. This development path is significant because it provides a controlled setting for young players to gain professional experience and improve their game, which is a great help in carving a path in the professional NBA.
Several real-life examples illustrate the importance of G-League utilization for players selected near the end of the second round. Players like Robert Covington (undrafted, but initially G-League), and Fred VanVleet (undrafted, similar trajectory) honed their skills and gained confidence in the G-League before becoming valuable NBA contributors. These are extreme outliers because they were not drafted at all. It’s important to also remember not everyone ends up like this. A late draft pick needs a lot of luck, a team’s support, and talent and drive to make it happen. The practical application of this understanding lies in NBA teams’ increasing emphasis on developing strong G-League affiliates and individualized development plans for their late-round picks. By providing resources for coaching, training, and performance analysis at the G-League level, teams aim to cultivate a pipeline of NBA-ready talent. This includes integrating NBA coaching staff with the G-League affiliate, and providing them the same playbooks, and strategies as the main team, which is a way to ensure the players and the organization are on the same page.
In conclusion, effective G-League utilization is a cornerstone of successful player development for those selected at the 55th pick. The G-League offers a controlled environment for skill enhancement, tactical adaptation, and physical conditioning, addressing the limited opportunities available at the NBA level. Challenges remain, including navigating fluctuating call-ups, and ensuring a consistent developmental focus amidst team performance goals. However, the strategic alignment between NBA teams and their G-League affiliates signifies a commitment to nurturing talent and maximizing the potential returns on these late-round investments.
Frequently Asked Questions
The subsequent section addresses common inquiries and misconceptions regarding the selection occurring at the 55th position in the annual NBA draft. The information aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with this late-round selection.
Question 1: What is the typical career trajectory of a player selected with the 55th pick?
Players chosen at this stage generally face an uphill battle to secure long-term NBA roster spots. Many find their careers limited to short stints, G-League assignments, or opportunities overseas. Sustained NBA success is less common compared to higher draft picks.
Question 2: Are there any notable success stories of players drafted at the 55th pick?
While rare, some players selected near the end of the second round have exceeded expectations. Identifying specific individuals requires analysis of historical draft data and performance statistics. However, such examples are the exception rather than the rule.
Question 3: What are the primary attributes NBA teams look for in prospects at the 55th pick?
Teams often prioritize developmental potential, athleticism, specialized skill sets (e.g., shooting or defense), and a strong work ethic. The ability to contribute to team culture and a willingness to accept a defined role are also critical factors.
Question 4: How important is G-League experience for players selected at the 55th pick?
The G-League serves as a vital developmental platform for these players, providing opportunities to hone their skills and gain experience in a professional setting. G-League performance is often a key factor in determining whether a player earns a call-up to the NBA.
Question 5: What is the trade value of the 55th pick?
On its own, the 55th pick possesses limited trade value. Its primary utility lies in enhancing the attractiveness of larger trade packages or facilitating salary cap maneuvers. It is rarely sufficient to acquire established NBA players independently.
Question 6: What are the contractual implications of selecting a player at the 55th pick?
Contracts for players selected at this stage are typically non-guaranteed or partially guaranteed, providing teams with greater financial flexibility. These contracts often reflect the inherent uncertainty surrounding the player’s long-term potential.
In summary, selecting a player at the 55th position presents both challenges and opportunities. While the odds of finding a star are low, strategic scouting, effective player development, and a focus on team fit can yield valuable contributors.
The subsequent article section will address a conclusion based on the information provided in this document.
Tips on Navigating the 55th Pick NBA Draft
The selection occurring at the 55th position presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. The following recommendations are directed towards those involved in evaluating and acquiring talent at this stage of the NBA draft.
Tip 1: Prioritize Thorough Scouting and Data Analytics: A deep understanding of available prospects, including advanced statistical analysis and comprehensive scouting reports, is paramount. Relying solely on conventional wisdom can lead to overlooking undervalued talent. Thoroughly scout not just NCAA prospects, but those playing professionally internationally.
Tip 2: Emphasize Skill Development Potential Over Immediate Impact: Given the low probability of immediate contribution, focus on players with demonstrably high potential for skill development. Assess trainability, work ethic, and the capacity to adapt to coaching, and measure their ability to change their game.
Tip 3: Evaluate Fit Within Organizational Culture and System: A player’s ability to seamlessly integrate into a team’s existing culture and system is critical for maximizing their contributions, regardless of skill. Determine their amenability to coaching, and their ability to play a specific role.
Tip 4: Leverage the G-League for Development: The G-League serves as a vital platform for honing skills and gaining experience. Prioritize a strong G-League affiliate and implement individualized development plans tailored to each player’s needs.
Tip 5: Mitigate Risk Through Comprehensive Medical Review: A thorough medical history review is essential to minimize the risk of selecting players with pre-existing conditions that could impede their development. Consult with multiple medical professionals.
Tip 6: Consider International Prospects with Established Professional Experience: Don’t overlook international prospects. They may have limited scouting data but also possess established playing experience in professional leagues. This provides a measure of experience that is hard to come by for late draft picks.
Selecting at the 55th pick requires a strategic and disciplined approach. Focus on long-term development, risk mitigation, and organizational fit to maximize the potential return on investment.
The concluding section of this article will summarize the key considerations discussed and provide a final perspective on navigating the challenges and opportunities associated with the 55th pick in the NBA draft.
Conclusion
The exploration of the 55th pick NBA draft reveals a landscape of limited opportunity and strategic considerations. Analysis demonstrates the relatively low probability of sustained NBA success for individuals selected at this stage. Consequently, teams must prioritize long-term developmental potential, risk mitigation through thorough medical evaluations, and a clear understanding of organizational fit. Resourceful utilization of the G-League and consideration of international prospects with professional experience represent viable strategies for maximizing returns on investment.
Effective decision-making at the 55th pick necessitates a data-driven approach, coupled with a realistic assessment of player expectations. While the pursuit of a hidden gem remains a compelling aspiration, the primary objective should be to identify players capable of contributing value within defined roles and exhibiting the potential for future growth. Strategic investment in player development and a willingness to deviate from conventional scouting paradigms are essential for navigating the challenges inherent in this late-round selection.
