nba_daily_lineups

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

No annotations provided. The description mentions the data source and that the feed shape varies, but does not disclose other behavioral traits such as whether lineups are projected pre-game or confirmed, update frequency, or error conditions.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

Three sentences: purpose, return shape, and example. The example sentence is somewhat redundant ('Example: Daily lineups for a date.') and adds little value. Could be more efficient.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

No output schema and no annotations. The description outlines the return structure but notes 'feed shape varies', leaving ambiguity about field details. For a tool returning lineups, more specifics (e.g., player names, positions) would be helpful.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

The schema only defines 'date' as string with no description. The description adds the format YYYYMMDD and indicates it represents the date for which lineups are retrieved, which provides necessary meaning beyond the schema. With 0% schema description coverage, this is valuable.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

Description states it returns projected/confirmed starting lineups for a date's games from stats.nba.com. The verb and resource are clear, but it does not explicitly differentiate from sibling NBA tools like nba_boxscore or nba_schedule, though the specific focus on starting lineups is distinct.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

No guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives. It does not specify prerequisites, caching considerations, or typical use cases beyond the example.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.