He's averaging 13.8 points and 6.5 rebounds in 20.8 minutes over the last 5 games on 68.6% shooting. Thow in 1.5 assists and 1.3 blocks for good measure.
I'd resign Tyler Zeller today and every other day of the week before I'd consider giving Jared Sullinger a contract.
When he's given consistent minutes in the right role (i.e. about 20 minutes a night as the backup center alongside guys who share the ball and can shoot), he's pretty darn good, and quite consistent as well.
I agree with you 100%.
Plus I really appreciate players who have positive attitudes, and the way Zeller has handled his downgraded role this year (especially after such a big role last year) has been nothing short of pure class.
I don't expect every player to be a Jae Crowder in terms of playing tough, physical, hard nosed play every night (though I love guys who are that way). I do however expect every player to to keep in shape, to keep a good attitude and to be ready to play every night no matter what the role - to be a true professional. Zeller has earned my respect because he's done all of that.
That's why I have so much more respect for guys like Zeller, Bradley, Crowder, Smart and Olynyk that I do for Sully. While he hasn't actually complained about roles (I'll give him that), his lack of dedication to his body combined with his so-so attitude have always put me off him.
He's still a talented player and if we didn't have such a plethora of bigs i would bring him back - but we do, and as long as that's the case I will give preference to the guys who have the right attitude.
Just my personal thoughts on it.