On Monday (1/13), Jared Sullinger will complete his "rookie" season

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Jared Sullinger will reach 82 career games on Monday.

Despite his efforts in his second NBA season, Sullinger had been told by his more veteran teammates that he was still a rookie until he played 82 games. With his rookie season cut short after 45 games due to back surgery, Sullinger needed another half season to advance.

Graduation day arrives on Monday when Sullinger should appear in his 37th game of the season. While he's avoided most of the rookie chores this year (handing out towels or water after practice; fetching peanut butter and jelly before games), he had been tasked with parenting the first-year group that includes pure rookies Vitor Faverani, Kelly Olynyk and Phil Pressey.

Through 81 career games, Sullinger is averaging 9.1 points and 6.5 rebounds over 22.6 minutes per game. He had started 23 games this season before his recent slump and, with Boston needing to get Kris Humphries' energy and effort on the floor, Sullinger recently shuffled back to a reserve role. Sullinger has steadfastly stated he's more concerned about his production than his role.