What mindset is displayed by a person who believes they can skip practice and still maintain their position on the team?

The mindset displayed by a person who believes they can skip practice and still maintain their position on the team is best described as wishful thinking. This term refers to the tendency to believe that one's desired outcomes will happen, regardless of the reality of the situation or the effort required to achieve those outcomes. In this case, the individual is likely hoping for positive results (such as staying on the team) without committing to the necessary work (practicing).

Understanding wishful thinking helps to clarify the distinction between hopefulness and realism, as it often leads to underestimating the importance of consistent effort and preparation in any competitive environment.