Bye, Bye, Devendorf

The Syracuse guard that everybody loves to hate -- Eric Devendorf -- has been given a season-long suspension from Syracuse. The suspension, as of right now, will be lifted in May.

Seems like the kid can't stop hitting people.

Devendorf's lawyer said Devendorf plans to appeal the decision.

What does this mean for Syracuse?
Well, for a team that has been on a meteoric rise in the national rankings, this is a serious blow. Devendorf averaged 14 points a game and, after missing last year with a knee injury, would have been a key member of Syracuse's campaign this year.

Without Devendorf, expect Andy Rautins's role to expand. There is also a slew of forwards off the bench who will probably see more time, with Syracuse employing a big lineup with Paul Harris at the 2.

The suspension also limits the amount of capable ball-handlers on the floor for Jim Boeheim. Teams might press Syracuse more. And it might also mean Jonny Flynn's minutes will go up -- even though they're already at about 35 a game.

Bottom line: This suspension is a major issue that will have an immediate and lasting impact on the Orange. One of their best players and top shooters/ball-handlers is going to miss the rest of the season. When things like that happen, being successful is difficult at best.

Elsewhere
-- Gonzaga struggled with Washington State for a half before pulling away. Wazzou clearly lacks the punch it had last year, but the Cougs still make it tough for people to score.

-- UMass finally got its second win. Turnovers were still a problem.

-- The Yankees are loading up.

-- And the Nats are trying to.