Shane Pinto’s contract matter took an unexpected turn when the Ottawa Senators forward was suspended 41 games by the National Hockey League (NHL) for making sports bets.
This is a first in the history of the Bettman Circuit, where no player has ever been penalized for this reason. According to the Sportsnet network, an investigation was launched this summer that put the brakes on negotiations between the restricted free agent and the Sens.
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“I would like to apologize to the National Hockey League, the Ottawa Senators, my teammates, the fans and the city of Ottawa and most importantly my family. “I take full responsibility for my actions and look forward to getting back on the ice with the team,” Pinto said in a written statement.
The exact nature of the league rule violation is unknown, but the NHL confirmed in a press release that the player had not placed bets on circuit games.
“The NHL considers this matter closed as no new information is being disclosed and will have no further comment,” she wrote.
In a memo sent to teams in 2022, the NHL “absolutely” banned sports betting and made clear that the practice “constitutes conduct that is dishonorable, harmful or contrary to the good of the league or hockey.”
In addition, a player who commits this offense could face expulsion, a fine, a suspension for a specific or indefinite period, or even termination of his contract.
Support from Senators
According to the Ottawa Sun, the Senators have withdrawn all contract offers they made to Pinto. The 22-year-old’s ban would have started from the first game of the season.
The Ottawa club confirmed that it did not have full information on the matter until the investigation was completed on Wednesday. He will also be ready to welcome Pinto “when the time is right and with league approval.”
“Shane is a valued member of our hockey team; a charming and intelligent young man who made poor decisions that led to his suspension by the National Hockey League. We know he regrets his mistakes,” the senators said.
“While we are sad to hear this news, the entire organization remains committed to Shane and will work with him to do whatever is necessary to give him the support to resolve his issues and become an important contributor to our community.”
Pinto, a second-round pick (32nd overall) in the 2019 draft, played 99 games in the NHL. Last year he collected 35 points, including 20 goals, in 82 games.