Ottowa Senator’s center Shane Pinto has been suspended for 41 games for violating the NHL’s gambling policy. He is the very first player to have been suspended for a gambling violation ever since the Supreme Court enabled the legalisation of sports wagering in 2018. The NHL has taken a strong stance on the violation, adding that an investigation found that there is no evidence Pinto bet on NHL games.  A statement from the league read: 

“The NHL considers this matter closed, absent the emergence of new information, and will have no further comment.”

Reaction

Now 22, Pinto has been playing for the Senators for over 3 years now and in the lead-up to his suspension, he offered this statement: “I want to apologize to the National Hockey League, the Ottawa Senators, my teammates, the fans, 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 my team.” The Senators themselves brought this statement expressing their willingness to welcome Pinto back with open arms subsequent to the suspension.

“The Ottawa Senators fully support the NHL’s rules on gambling. While saddened to learn of this issue, the entire organization remains committed to Shane and will work together to do what is necessary to help provide the support to allow him to address his issues and become a strong contributor to our community.”

The suspension

The 41-game ban will convert Pinto to a restricted free agent and according to many sources, the suspension is retroactive to the start of the season.

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