Sullinger: 'Right now, everyone is doubting me'
Chris Forsberg, ESPN Staff Writer
"I think it’s just, they want me to go one step further," said Sullinger. "I think that’s what it is -- one step further. That's pretty much what I’m doing [this offseason], everyday at Ohio State. I'm trying to push myself to be that guy, but also who I want to be. I’m slowly working on it and still pushing myself."
Sullinger remained evasive on exactly what changes he's made, but suggested it's been a sizable lifestyle overhaul, all with the hope of "being the guy that I know I can be."
Added Sullinger: "Everyone has questioned me before -- said I'm not the most athletic, not this guy, not that guy -- and every level I’ve proved them wrong. It's another chance for me to show my work."
Sullinger, who is set to earn a modest $2.3 million next season, is extension eligible this summer. Both the Celtics and Sullinger's camp have hinted that contract talks are more likely to occur next summer when Sullinger would be headed toward restricted free agency.
Sullinger has downplayed contract chatter and did so again while noting, "I’m not really focused on numbers. I think my production will speak for itself." He stressed that he's more focused on what he needs to accomplish off the court this offseason.
And he hears the whispers of those that don't believe he can be that player.
"Right now, everyone is doubting me," said Sullinger. "I get everything, 'He’s not this, he’s not that. He’s not the guy that we thought he was going to be, potentially.' I’ve heard it all. I use it as motivation. Nothing is going to change [with his approach], I’m going to keep working, working as hard as possible."
I'm nervous about Sully man. Hard to trust him with big Dollars.