“In a good way, some of them are really impressive and inspiring in the way they approach the game every night. But others that I used to like, now it’s like I’m just not sure they deserve it. Like they don’t seem like they put as much work in as I thought.”
Surprised to hear this from a European player, this is a very American mentality - that somehow your professional work ethic and attitude towards your job is a reflection of your character. It’s not. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with being content with being mediocre at your job - if anything that leads to a better work/life balance.