It can be devastating. And this one is particularly messy. In the Westminster game he only playedd a few minutes because he was an emotional disaster.
I know a few details on what is going on. The NCAA issue is minor and was only expected to result in a suspension of a few games. The problem is Nick's personal life is a mess. His ex and her family are determined to make his life as miserable as possible and the Tribune is a willing accomplice.
Nick and Coach Rose have decided that rather than waste a year of eligibility where his head and his game isn't where it needs to be, he would be better off taking time off to get himself in a better place. There is no reason not to take the statement at face value.